Luke McKay

As I gear up to participate in this year's Distinguished Gentleman's Ride, a cause close to my heart, I'm compelled to shed light on a critical issue within our building and construction industry: suicide.

It's a sobering reality that the construction sector faces alarmingly high rates of suicide among its workers. The pressures and challenges inherent in the industry, from demanding deadlines to physical strain, often take a toll on mental well-being.

Recent statistics paint a grim picture. Men make up the majority of the workforce in construction, and sadly, they are also disproportionately affected by suicide. The stigma surrounding mental health in this traditionally masculine environment too often leads to silence and suffering in solitude.

But it doesn't have to be this way. Initiatives like the Distinguished Gentleman's Ride are instrumental in breaking down these barriers, fostering conversations, and providing much-needed support for men's mental health.

By participating in events like these and rallying support from our communities, we can raise awareness, offer resources, and ultimately save lives. It's time to prioritize mental health in the construction industry and ensure that every worker feels seen, heard, and supported.

Join me in the fight against suicide in the building and construction industry. Let's rise together, speak out, and make a difference. Together, we can build a future where mental health is valued, and lives are saved. #DGR2024 #MensHealth #BreakTheStigma