Climbing Matterhorn for Construction Mental Health Awareness
It is estimated that there are currently more than 700,000 suicides per year worldwide, making it a critical issue that affects individuals and communities worldwide. Among men in the US, UK and Australia, construction has one of the highest suicide rates of any sector, making it an industry with some of the worst mental health rates. According to the latest Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) annual report on occupational injuries, there’s been a 7.7% increase in construction fatalities and a 13.1% increase in suicides in 2022 over 2021.
Throughout September, we honor World Suicide Prevention Day and National Suicide Prevention Month in the US, a time to shift public perception, elevate resources, and spread hope. While these statistics are shocking, advocates and organizations are engaging in open and honest discussions about prioritizing mental health and changing the narrative on suicide.
One of those leaders is Logan Price, Quantity Surveyor Degree Apprentice at MPB Structures, who decided to climb the 14,692-foot tall Matterhorn in Switzerland to help raise awareness around mental health in construction. Working as a construction apprentice in the UK, his experience struggling with mental health inspired him to take action.
“The overall balance of my life was probably off. I was traveling too much, averaging around 1000 miles of driving a week,” said Price. “I became an advocate for mental health because of my own lived experience. I know what it means to be in a dark place and can relate to people in the industry that have faced their own challenges.”
According to a study on mental health and well-being in the construction industry launched by the American Psychiatric Association's Center for Workplace Mental Health, construction’s struggle with poor mental health is due to a multitude of factors. These can include long hours, high physical demands and risks, tight deadlines and margins, a male-dominated industry where toughness and strength are valued, and seeking help being seen as a weakness.
Leaders like Logan who share their stories and are vulnerable about their journey help to reduce the stigma around mental health challenges. “Talking about your mental health when you’re in the midst of struggling is one of the strongest things you can do. It takes immense courage,” said Price. “Since speaking about my experience I have received an overwhelming amount of support and encouragement, which has continued to motivate me to raise more awareness of this issue.”
He first set his sights on Mont Blanc, using the climb as a way to give himself a personal challenge to cope with his mental health struggles, as well as a tactic to raise awareness around the topic of mental health in construction and over $35,000 for the cause. He also continued to share his story and discuss the topic with critical audiences, from speaking at London Build, to being invited by Mates in Mind to talk with Prince William, and for Get Construction Talking videos and events.
Get Construction Talking aims to raise awareness of mental health in construction, reduce stigma, and aim to raise $1 million in funds to support construction mental health charities in extending scale and increasing impact across the globe.
Participating in the momentum around the initiative inspired Logan to set his sights on a new peak: the Matterhorn. Due to its steep, exposed terrain, unpredictable weather, and technical challenges that require advanced mountaineering skills, the Matterhorn is known for being one of the most difficult mountains to climb.
“Similar to Mont Blanc, I wanted to continue to advocate for improved mental health within the construction industry and demonstrate just how far you can come from a difficult place in your life,” said Price.
“What Logan has put himself through to raise awareness of mental health in construction and funds for mental health resources through the Get Construction Talking initiative is extraordinary and we cannot thank him enough” said Fred Mills, Founder of The B1M, who created Get Construction Talking with Procore.
“It's entirely in keeping with Logan’s selfless character. He’s the best of this industry and a role model for others looking to address mental health issues in the sector.”
His preparation for the climb took just over 3 months, starting with an altitude assessment that allowed him to analyze his physiological ability dealing with higher altitudes. This formed his personalized training plan to prepare for the climb, which included sleeping in an altitude tent over his bed for the three weeks leading up to departing for Switzerland.
Price reached the summit on the morning of July 26, 2024, raising the Get Construction Talking flag at the top of one of the most recognizable peaks in the world. He also raised over $25,000 to go towards Get Construction Talking and the six nonprofits across the US, UK, and Australia that are receiving the funds. A donation to Get Construction Talking from Procore Technologies Inc. will further support Price's efforts to improve mental health across the globe.
To take your next step towards action in preventing suicide in construction, including accessing resources and downloading a free toolkit, visit getconstructiontalking.org.
