The TEDx talk by Vince Hafeli addresses the severe mental health crisis in the construction industry, where suicide rates are five times higher than on site accident deaths. He shares his own near suicidal experience and explains how industry culture, marked by toughness, stigma, and reluctance to talk about emotions, prevents workers from seeking help. Hafeli calls for cultural change, more open conversations, and stronger mental health support across all levels of construction workplaces.

The talk highlights several critical issues: suicide in the construction industry occurs at a rate five times higher than workplace accidents, making it one of the most urgent safety concerns the sector faces. Vince Hafeli shares his own near‑suicidal experience, showing how even senior leaders can struggle silently in an environment that discourages openness and emotional vulnerability. He explains how cultural norms—such as toughness, stoicism, and the expectation to endure stress without complaint—can prevent workers from seeking help when they need it most. Hafeli stresses that true improvement requires strong leadership engagement, open dialogue, reduced stigma, and integrating mental health into everyday safety practices across construction workplaces. 

Watch the full video here: Discussing Mental Health and Suicide in Construction | Vince Hafeli | TEDxUniversityofMississippi