HSI's Chief Safety Officer, Jill James, chats with other safety professionals about how they came into their role as a safety professional, what they've learned along the way, as well as some of the highs and lows that come with job.
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HSI's Chief Safety Officer, Jill James, chats with other safety professionals about how they came into their role as a safety professional, what they've learned along the way, as well as some of the highs and lows that come with job.
124: Suicide Prevention and Mental Health Support in Construction
The Accidental Safety Pro
56 minutes
9 months ago
124: Suicide Prevention and Mental Health Support in Construction
The construction industry has one of the highest suicide rates of any occupation, with 6,000 workers dying by suicide in 2022. Sondra Lavoie knows how difficult it is to have "THE" conversation around mental health, but emphasizes the importance of building trust, using the right language, and providing resources to support workers' wellbeing. Sondra is an assistant vice president risk control specialist with Sompo, but started her journey as a construction company receptionist. She earned her degrees and certifications later in life, including a CHST and CSP, and has since produced award-winning work in the safety and mental health spaces. Sondra is passionate about mental health and suicide prevention in the construction industry, and she shares strategies for having difficult conversations with workers and company leadership to address these issues. She also discusses the value of public speaking skills and mentorship for safety professionals to improve their communication abilities.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, reach out for help immediately by calling or texting the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988. This service provides 24/7 confidential support for anyone experiencing emotional distress or suicidal thoughts.
Episode links:
Sondra's LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/sondra-lavoie-csp-arm-asp-chst-b3593110/]
Sondra Lavoie - How to have "THE" Conversation - Suicide Prevention [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9XF0a88Lxf4]
NAMI is the National Alliance on Mental Illness, the nation's largest grassroots mental health organization dedicated to building better lives for the millions of Americans affected by mental illness.
About NAMI | NAMI [https://www.nami.org/about-nami/?msclkid=f40f256c9cf411b6679042e9a520c958&utm_source=bing&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=REV%20Evergreen%20Donate%202025&utm_term=NAMI&utm_content=2025&utm_source=globalNav&utm_medium=website&utm_campaign=DonationTracking&c_src=25ED]
988- Using the 988 Lifeline is free. When you call, text, or chat the 988 Lifeline, your conversation is confidential. The 988 Lifeline provides you judgment-free care. Talking with someone can help save your life.
Get Help - 988 Lifeline [https://988lifeline.org/get-help/]
Mental Health First Aid - Identify. Understand. Respond. Mental Health First Aid is an evidence-based, early-intervention course that teaches participants about mental health and substance use challenges.
Mental Health First Aid [https://www.mentalhealthfirstaid.org/]
The Accidental Safety Pro
HSI's Chief Safety Officer, Jill James, chats with other safety professionals about how they came into their role as a safety professional, what they've learned along the way, as well as some of the highs and lows that come with job.
