Reflections... Building Hope
At APM, safety means more than hard hats and harnesses—it also means caring for mental health. Suicide prevention is one of the most urgent challenges in our industry, and we have a responsibility to act. This month, I’m proud to share that APM is partnering with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) to expand training, resources, and awareness. I’ve asked our Communications Director, Katie Maldonado, to share more about our new partnership and related events this month.
September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. For construction, this matters a lot—our industry has some of the highest suicide rates in the country relative to other industries. The work is tough, the hours are long, and sometimes life’s pressures feel too heavy to shoulder. But there is hope and suicide can often be prevented.
Why This Month Matters
Construction workers face big pressures—long days, physical strain, distance from loved ones, and sometimes the feeling that asking for help isn’t okay.
Talking about mental health breaks down that stigma. Reaching out for help is strength, not weakness.
Suicide can often be prevented. Learning the warning signs and speaking up can save a life.
Our New Partnership
We’re proud to share that APM is teaming up with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP). Together, we’ll share information and bring training to our teams so everyone has the tools to recognize when someone might be struggling—and how to start a conversation and support them.
This partnership means:
Better understanding of what workers go through in our industry.
Training and resources that give you real tools to help.
Stronger culture where safety means both body and mind.
Moving Forward Together
This month is an important reminder, but suicide prevention isn’t just about September—it’s about every day. We all play a role. A quick check-in with a coworker, sharing resources, or showing up for training can make a real difference.
At APM, we care about the craftspeople just as much as the craft we deliver. We want to build a future where we’ve got each other’s backs—on the job and in everyday life.
Next week also marks Construction Suicide Prevention Week (9/8-12) and World Suicide Prevention Day (9/10). Monday is also 988 Day (9/8), spreading awareness that you can call or text 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline for support. These are great reminders, accompanied by resources and helpful information. See below some additional resources that may be valuable.
If you are interested in becoming trained to deliver the Talk Saves Lives: Construction Presentation (developed by AFSP), please reach out to me at katie.maldonado@apmdelivers.com.
Finally, please see the below image for five ways YOU can make a difference in suicide prevention. Thank you for being a brother’s and sister’s keeper.
R. Jake Locklear