Podcast Summary: Dirt Talk by BuildWitt – Episode DT 324: Destigmatizing Mental Health in Construction with Rich Jones

Release Date: March 27, 2025
Host: Aaron (BuildWitt)
Guest: Rich Jones

Introduction

In Episode DT 324 of Dirt Talk by BuildWitt, host Aaron engages in an in-depth conversation with Rich Jones, a mental health advocate and recovery coach. The episode centers on destigmatizing mental health issues within the construction industry, exploring the unique challenges faced by workers, the pervasive stigma surrounding mental health and addiction, and effective strategies for fostering a supportive workplace environment.

The Changing World and Its Impact on Mental Health

Timestamp: [01:30] – [03:08]

Aaron and Rich open the discussion by reflecting on the rapid and exponential changes in the world over the past century. They express concern that societal evolution has outpaced human psychological adaptation, leading to significant disconnects in understanding mental health.

Rich Jones ([02:09] – [02:16]): “We don't even have the capacity or we haven't evolved as a species to be able to even integrate that.”

The Opioid Epidemic in Construction

Timestamp: [03:51] – [06:23]

The conversation shifts to the opioid crisis, particularly its devastating impact on the construction sector. Both speakers highlight how traditional models of addressing addiction—such as waiting for individuals to hit rock bottom—are inadequate in the face of potent synthetic opioids like fentanyl.

Rich Jones ([04:16]): “How could anyone say that the best way to handle addiction is to wait for people to hit bottom in 2025?”

Rich shares his personal battle with opioid addiction, detailing how easily prescriptions were obtained and the rapid escalation to dependency.

Rich Jones ([09:54]): “I had seven or eight different doctors prescribing me these opioids, man.”

Stigma and Stereotypes Surrounding Mental Health

Timestamp: [12:50] – [21:44]

Aaron and Rich delve into the deep-seated stigma associated with mental health and addiction. They challenge the misconception that addiction only affects the "worst of the worst," emphasizing that mental health issues are widespread and affect a vast majority of individuals.

Rich Jones ([21:08] – [21:12]): “For 93% of Americans to report yes to that, it tells you that the reality is if you're out there saying, I never dealt with this, you're actually the weirdo.”

They discuss how media portrayals reinforce negative stereotypes, limiting societal empathy and support for those struggling with these issues.

Rich Jones ([17:14] – [17:34]): “There’s a lot of negative stories from TV, movies, and parents growing up that run so deep in our culture.”

Recovery and Support Systems

Timestamp: [27:16] – [35:10]

Rich elucidates his journey to recovery, highlighting that recovery doesn't necessitate complete willingness to change from the outset. He stresses the importance of perseverance and finding the right support systems, noting that progress often comes incrementally.

Rich Jones ([32:09] – [32:23]): “The biggest thing is perseverance and don't quit the process.”

Aaron and Rich also address misconceptions surrounding therapy, particularly within the blue-collar community, advocating for more practical and immediate support mechanisms over traditional therapy sessions.

Rich Jones ([81:08]): “These guys are looking for real, practical support, not just clinical therapy.”

Family and Intergenerational Trauma

Timestamp: [115:21] – [118:24]

The discussion moves to the role of family and intergenerational trauma in mental health. Rich emphasizes how unresolved issues from previous generations can impact current behaviors and relationships, advocating for empathy and understanding within familial dynamics.

Rich Jones ([120:30] – [120:47]): “We made this assumption that everybody walking in the door is like that, but the majority of people aren't.”

Workplace Responsibilities and Support

Timestamp: [57:16] – [80:35]

Aaron and Rich debate the extent of employers' moral responsibility towards employees' mental health outside of work hours. They argue that fostering a supportive work environment can significantly benefit both employees and businesses by reducing absenteeism, improving productivity, and enhancing overall well-being.

Rich Jones ([58:53]): “Take a step back and just look at the numbers and understand how that impacts your workplace.”

Rich introduces Build Well Health’s approach, contrasting it with traditional Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) that often have high barriers to access. He advocates for more accessible and confidential support systems tailored to the construction industry's unique needs.

Rich Jones ([55:32]): “We have a contract with the ABC Employee Assistance Program... but our solution is more accessible and user-friendly.”

Conclusions and Takeaways

Timestamp: [118:37] – [125:11]

In their concluding remarks, Aaron and Rich emphasize the necessity of cultural change within industries to destigmatize mental health issues. They express optimism that through open dialogue, education, and practical support systems like Build Well Health, the construction industry can become more supportive and understanding.

Rich Jones ([124:32] – [124:34]): “You got to raise your hand, come get help. You're always only going to get 1 to 3% of the employee population.”

Aaron ([124:58] – [125:11]): “I could not be a bigger supporter of it. We've tried to support it in every which way possible.”

Notable Quotes

• Rich Jones ([32:09] – [32:23]): “The biggest thing is perseverance and don't quit the process.”
• Rich Jones ([21:08] – [21:12]): “For 93% of Americans to report yes to that, it tells you that the reality is if you're out there saying, I never dealt with this, you're actually the weirdo.”
• Rich Jones ([19:13] – [19:19]): “We're not going to rest our way out of this. We're not going to punish our way out of it.”
• Aaron ([05:20] – [05:21]): “It breaks the whole model.”
• Rich Jones ([55:33] – [55:36]): “I'm not a professional counselor. Who am I to be able to.”
• Rich Jones ([69:07] – [69:13]): “Let’s go make a message about mental health. But it’s going to be scripted. I’m going to be reading off teleprompter.”

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the key discussions, insights, and conclusions from Episode DT 324, providing an informative and engaging overview for those who have not listened to the episode. By highlighting the critical issues of mental health stigma, the opioid epidemic in construction, and effective recovery strategies, Aaron and Rich offer valuable perspectives aimed at fostering a more supportive and understanding industry environment.