In the construction industry, toughness is often worn like a badge of honor. We show up in every kind of weather. We push through long hours, heavy lifting, tight deadlines, and high-pressure environments. At Montesano Brothers, a family-run heavy civil contractor based in New Rochelle, we’ve built a reputation on doing the hard work right. But when it comes to supporting mental health in construction, it’s time we recognize that the toughest thing someone can do is ask for help.
We build roads, bridges, and infrastructure projects across the Tri-State area. And while we take pride in the strength of our crews and our machines, we place just as much value on emotional resilience and mental well-being.
The Hidden Strain Behind the Hard Hats
Construction workers face some of the highest rates of suicide and substance abuse among all professions in the U.S. The CDC has reported that male construction workers are nearly four times more likely to die by suicide than the national average. That’s a sobering statistic—one that hits close to home for many of us in the trades.
Why is this happening?
- Stigma: Mental health is still a tough topic in many blue-collar spaces. Admitting you’re struggling can feel like weakness in a culture built on resilience.
- Job insecurity: Work can be seasonal or project-based, which creates financial stress.
- Physical toll: Long hours, injuries, and chronic pain can lead to depression, anxiety, and substance dependency.
- Isolation: Despite being surrounded by coworkers, many in the field don’t feel they have someone they can truly talk to.
These aren’t just statistics; they’re real people, real families, and real losses. And as a public works excavation company that’s spent decades on sites from DOT roadways to DEP infrastructure projects, we’ve seen how important it is to care for our crew beyond the scope of the job.
Building a Culture of Care in Construction
At Montesano Brothers, we believe that true leadership doesn’t end at the edge of the job site. It’s about taking care of our people. That means creating a culture where it’s safe to say, “I’m not okay,” and where no one has to suffer in silence.
We start by checking in. Not just with clipboards and project schedules, but with heart.
- Ask your coworkers how they’re really doing.
- Create space for open conversations—without judgment.
- Recognize the signs of burnout, depression, or withdrawal.
- Remind your team that support is not only available—it’s encouraged.
At every Montesano Brothers job site, we talk about safety, steel-toe boots, traffic control, fall protection. But mental safety is becoming a part of that checklist, too. Because what’s the use in building a structure if the people building it are crumbling inside?
Mental Health Resources in New York State
If you or someone you know is struggling, please know that you’re not alone. Here are some trusted mental health resources for New York construction workers and their families:
NYS Office of Mental Health (OMH)
- Website: omh.ny.gov
- Offers mental health programs and resources across the state.
NYS Crisis Text Line
- Text “HELLO” to 741741
- Free, 24/7 support from trained crisis counselors
NY Project Hope
- Website: nyprojecthope.org
- Emotional support helpline for COVID-related stress, anxiety, and mental health needs
- Call: 1-844-863-9314
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (Now 988)
- Call or text 988
- 24/7 confidential support for people in distress
Construction Industry Alliance for Suicide Prevention
- Website: preventconstructionsuicide.com
- Resources for construction companies, unions, and employees
Our Commitment at Montesano Brothers
As one of the region’s trusted names in heavy civil construction, excavation, and public infrastructure, we’re committed to creating job sites that are physically and mentally safe. That means:
- Morning huddles that include mental health check-ins
- Team leads trained to recognize emotional distress
- Open-door policies and respect for work-life balance
- Access to mental health and EAP resources
- A culture where it’s okay to ask for a break and support is never far
Whether we’re laying the groundwork for a stormwater management system or relocating utilities for a hospital expansion, the success of any project depends on our people; and people thrive when they feel seen, heard, and supported.
You Matter More Than Any Deadline
To our team, our partners, our subs, and everyone in the trades: You matter. Not just as a worker, but as a human being.
It’s okay to feel tired. It’s okay to feel overwhelmed. It’s okay to talk about it.
Checking in on your coworker isn’t just kind, it could be lifesaving. And taking care of yourself isn’t selfish; it’s smart, and it sets the tone for others to do the same.
At Montesano Brothers, we believe that construction is about more than concrete and steel. It’s about people. Let’s build a safer, healthier industry, together.
