Mental health and substance use challenges can affect anyone, but people working in trades and related industries may face unique pressures and barriers to seeking support. The work across these industries can be physically demanding and even dangerous, and there’s often a risk of injury. In some cases, a get-it-done workplace culture might discourage people from seeking help. But the workplace culture in the trades can also be a great source of strength: crews tend to be close, and they’re often willing to help each other out.

The Tailgate Toolkit is a free program that helps people working in construction, trades, transportation, and forestry industries find and access resources and supports for substance use, mental health, and pain management. It was created by Vancouver Island Construction Association (VICA) and Island Health with support from the BC government. It's now available across the province through partnerships with other construction associations. The program has four key parts:

• Toolbox Talks: A member of the Tailgate Toolkit team will come to your worksite for a 30-to-45-minute conversation about substance use and mental health supports, including harm reduction tools.
• Supervisor Training: Supervisors, managers, site leaders, safety workers or company owners can take a 12-hour course about how to talk with employees about substance use and mental health.
• Hammer Time: An anonymous online support group for construction workers meets on Thursdays to talk about substance use. It’s not a 12-step program, it’s not religious, and you don’t have to be sober to participate.
• Print materials: Tailgate Toolkit has print materials, including pamphlets and brochures, with information about local mental health supports.

Visit the Tailgate Toolkit website to access these resources or get in touch with the program and learn more about how the Tailgate Toolkit can support your team. Through funding from the BC government, each competent of the Tailgate Toolkit is free to access.

It can be hard to talk about mental health and substance use, especially at work, but the Tailgate Toolkit can help you find the right tools for the job.

How can I help?

If someone you know or care about is struggling, whether at work or in your personal life, take time to check in with them. Remember that open, non-judgmental conversations help people talk honestly about the challenges they face. Listen actively and try not to provide advice or opinions until they’re asked for. Remind people that support is available.

If someone is looking for support or treatment for a mental health or substance use problem, HelpStartsHere can be a great place to start searching. The Tailgate Toolkit resource guides also highlight what supports are available in your region. You can also call 8-1-1 or visit a primary care provider through a clinic or virtual doctor’s appointment.