In this powerful video, Joey confronts the pervasive stigma surrounding mental health and addiction in the construction industry, calling for meaningful change in how these critical issues are addressed in workplaces across the sector.
Confronting the Industry's Mental Health Crisis
Joey begins by addressing the significant stigma that continues to surround addiction and mental health issues, particularly within the construction industry. He emphasizes that despite growing awareness, there remains a severe lack of appropriate support systems for workers struggling with these challenges – an issue that demands immediate attention from industry leaders.
When Zero Tolerance Means Zero Support
Drawing from personal experience, Joey shares a particularly difficult chapter from his own journey with addiction. He recounts how a former employer enforced a strict zero-tolerance policy that led to his dismissal without offering any form of support for his addiction issues. This experience highlights a common and troubling approach within the industry – one that punishes rather than supports individuals dealing with mental health and addiction challenges.
"When I needed help the most, I was shown the door instead of being offered support," Joey explains, underscoring how this widespread approach not only fails individuals but ultimately harms the industry as a whole by losing talented workers who could recover with proper support.
Constructive Mind: Creating a Pathway to Recovery
In response to these challenges, Joey introduces Constructive Mind as a vital resource designed specifically for individuals in the construction industry who are grappling with mental health issues or addiction. The organization aims to provide the support, guidance, and safe space that is so often lacking in traditional workplace environments.
"We're building what I wish had existed when I was at my lowest point," Joey says, describing Constructive Mind's mission to create pathways to recovery that understand the unique pressures and challenges faced by those working in construction.
A Call for Industry-Wide Change
Joey concludes with a powerful call to action for the entire construction industry to reassess and transform its approach to mental health and addiction. He advocates for the implementation of supportive policies, proper training for managers and supervisors, and the creation of workplace cultures where individuals feel safe to speak openly about their struggles without fear of judgment or punishment.
"The strength of our industry isn't just in what we build – it's in how we support each other through our toughest challenges," Joey emphasizes, inviting construction professionals at all levels to join Constructive Mind in breaking the stigma surrounding mental health and addiction.