Two Pittsburgh area AGC chapters, the Master Builders’ Association of Western Pennsylvania (MBA) and the Constructors Association of Western Pennsylvania (CAWP), have teamed together to launch a new mental health initiative for the Pittsburgh area construction industry. By posing a simple question, "Yinz Good?" (Pittsburghese for "Are you okay?"), the initiative encourages individuals to engage in conversations about mental health and eliminate the stigma surrounding mental health issues in the workplace.
The program reflects the CAWP and MBA's dedication to the health and welfare of the construction industry's workforce. By offering a comprehensive collection of resources through a dedicated website, Yinz Good? aims to provide tangible support for individuals facing mental health challenges and contribute to a safer, healthier, and more productive work environment.
"We undertook this initiative because even though we had plenty of resources available to our workers, we knew that what we didn’t have were workers who were actively engaging with the resources”, said Bob McCall, Director of Safety for the MBA. “We believe that every construction professional deserves convenient access to mental health resources and support. Through the Yinz Good? program, we hope to strengthen mental health awareness, resilience, and overall well-being among our members."
"We recognized the need to address mental health in the construction industry and provide a platform for workers to openly discuss their well-being," said Jason Koss, Director of Industry Relations for the CAWP. "Yinz Good? encourages healthy conversations surrounding mental health and emphasizes the importance of self-care and support. "
Independent research among the CAWP and MBA members revealed there is a significant need and desire for mental health resources in the construction community. An overwhelming 98% of members surveyed indicated they could be doing more to help employees, co-workers, and themselves. Free materials that help start the conversation of mental health and wellness are a welcomed resource.
To learn more about the Yinz Good? initiative and access the mental health resources available, please visit the official website at www.YinzGood.com. Start the conversation and make mental health a priority within the construction industry by asking the simple question, "Yinz Good?"