Erik Locke: Breaking the silence - Why mental health matters in construction

In this episode of Constructive Talk, host Daniel Carroll sits down with Erik Locke, CEO of Incolink, to explore one of the toughest conversations in our industry — mental health.Construction is an industry built on strength, endurance and teamwork — but behind the hard hats, many workers are struggling in silence. With suicide rates nearly twice the national male average, it’s time to talk openly about what’s really going on.Erik shares how Incolink is leading change through programs like Blue Hats, Drop the Act, and onsite counselling — all designed to break stigma, build peer support and save lives. From practical mental health advice to cultural change on site, this conversation goes beyond awareness — it’s about action.Tune in to hear why mental health matters as much as physical safety, and how each of us can play a role in supporting our mates.----------Resources and linksIf today’s conversation brought something up for you or someone you know, there’s support available:Incolink Blue Hats Program Peer-to-peer suicide prevention and mental health support for construction workers.Drop the Act Incolink’s campaign encouraging workers to stop pretending everything’s okay and start a real conversation.Incolink Wellbeing & Support Services Free, confidential counselling and onsite support for construction industry workers. Need to talk now?Incolink Counselling: 1300 000 129Lifeline: 13 11 14Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636You can also learn more about 'Feeling Good' by David Burns here 👉 Feeling Good | The website of David D. Burns, MD You owe it to yourself to Feel Good!