Training on Suicide Prevention, Intervention and Postvention
Date Posted: June 30, 2026
Posted In: Discussion, Ideas, Workforce,
Construction professionals across the St. Louis region will have the opportunity to strengthen one of the industry’s most critical safety initiatives—mental health—during a specialized training program on Monday, Aug. 10, at Saint Louis University’s Center for Environmental Education and Training (CEET).
The session, “Building Resilience: A Series for Mental Health in the Trades,” will feature Dr. John Gaal, Director and Chief Learning Officer of the Building Trades Wellness Coalition, presenting “Suicide Triangle: Prevention, Intervention, Postvention.” The program runs from 7:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. at the Wool Center, Room 294, 3545 Lindell Blvd. Networking begins at 7:30 a.m., followed by training from 8:00 to 10:00 a.m.
Suicide remains one of the construction industry’s most pressing health challenges. The training is designed specifically for construction leaders, supervisors and trades professionals, offering practical strategies to recognize warning signs, respond effectively during a crisis and help organizations recover after a suicide or suicide attempt. Participants will complete pre-work before the session to maximize the value of the in-person discussion.
Gaal’s presentation is organized around three essential components of workplace mental health:
- Prevention: Recognizing risk factors and building a culture of awareness.
- Intervention: Responding confidently and effectively in crisis situations.
- Postvention: Understanding the impact of suicide and supporting recovery and resilience on jobsites and within organizations.
The program emphasizes that supporting mental health is as fundamental to workplace safety as preventing physical injuries. By equipping managers, supervisors and coworkers with practical tools, organizations can strengthen workplace culture while helping save lives.
The event is presented through Saint Louis University’s Center for Environmental Education and Training in partnership with the St. Louis Building Trades Wellness Coalition, the Great Plains OSHA Education Center, and Aetna.
Registration is available through the St. Louis Building Trades Wellness Coalition events page.