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Facts

March 17-23, 2025: National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week

Addiction is a commonly misunderstood disease, which results in persistent stigma and ineffective health responses. Debunking myths around substance use and addiction is a critical part of prevention, intervention and recovery. In support of our members who may be at risk of or are living with a substance use condition, the BAC Member Assistance Program (MAP) is committed to raising awareness and promoting productive, fact-based conversations around drug and alcohol use. 

To better understand the facts about how the addicted brain works, click here to watch a short video from Yale Medicine. 

Click here to get the myths vs. facts on addiction. 

If you or a loved one are in need of substance use support, guidance or treatment, please contact BAC MAP at 1-833-MAP-TALK (M-F, 8am-7pm ET). You may also click here to access a treatment locator. 

If you or someone you know is experiencing a life-threatening emergency, please call 911. You may also obtain immediate 24/7 help from the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling 988. 

 

 

BipolarDisorder

March 30, 2025: World Bipolar Disorder Day

Bipolar disorder is a condition linked with unusual activity in the brain that results in significant shifts in mood, behaviors, and the ability to carry out day-to-day tasks (especially if impairment is severe and left untreated). It is important to understand that bipolar disorder is different than normal ups and downs that all humans experience; and while there is growing acceptance of bipolar disorder as a legitimate medical condition, unfortunately it remains highly stigmatized (which can prevent a timely diagnosis and delayed connection to treatment/prolonged suffering). 

The Bricklayers' Member Assistance Program (MAP) recognizes World Bipolar Disorder Day as a time to increase education and sensitivity to bipolar disorder, while offering support to our members and their loved ones who may be experiencing challenges related to it. 

BAC MAP recommends taking a bipolar disorder symptom screening by clicking here, as well as connecting with MAP by calling 1-833-MAP-TALK (M-F, 8am-7pm ET). 

To learn more about bipolar disorder, please click here. You can also find local bipolar disorder support groups by clicking here. 

If you or someone you know is experiencing a life-threatening emergency, please call 911. You may also obtain immediate 24/7 help from the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling 988. 

 

 

HikeforHope

Spring/Summer 2025 (Dates Vary): AFSP Construction Hike for Hope 

As a part of its initiative to help reduce deaths by suicide within the construction industry, the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) is hosting various Construction Hike for Hope events around the US this spring and summer. Saving and improving lives is a driving mission of the Bricklayers' Member Assistance Program (MAP), and we encourage our members to join the efforts by learning more and signing up. There is no registration fee.

For more information about an upcoming Construction Hike for Hope event in your community, please click here. 

If you or someone you know is experiencing a life-threatening emergency, please call 911. You may also obtain immediate 24/7 help from the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling 988. 

Recent Bulletins

February 2025: International Boost Self-Esteem Month

SelfEsteemMonth

February 2025: International Boost Self-Esteem Month

Self-esteem has to do with the image one has of him or herself. When your self-esteem is low, you are at higher risk for depression, poor self-care, abusive relationships, negative health outcomes, and more. While low self-esteem can be the result of harmful childhood experiences, trauma, and the like; it has the ability to be restored.

Boosting self-esteem allows you to retain a sense of worthiness, even through life's greatest hardships. Those with higher self-esteem are more resilient, have a greater sense of purpose and belonging, have better relationship and health outcomes, and generally report higher happiness levels. The Bricklayers' Member Assistance Program (BAC MAP) recognizes that high self-esteem is a critical part of contributing to (and enjoying) healthier work environments, as well as experiences and relationships outside of work.

BAC MAP invites you to put boosting self-esteem on your radar this month, and to connect with our Department's licensed professionals if help is needed. You can reach BAC MAP by calling 1-833-MAP-TALK (M-F, 8am-7pm).

If you or someone you know is experiencing a life-threatening emergency, please call 911. You may also obtain immediate 24/7 help from the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling 988. 

January 2025: Substance Use Disorder Treatment Month

 SUDTreatment
January 2025: Substance Use Disorder Treatment Month

January 2025 marks the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's (SAMHSA) first annual Substance Use Disorder Treatment Month.

In the spirit of January being a time for new beginnings (although there is no wrong moment for this), Substance Use Disorder Treatment Month encourages reflection upon one's relationship with substances and substance use, as well as the pursuit of recovery. It is also a time to be reminded of the many resources available, including the Bricklayers' Member Assistance Program (BAC MAP), and to further efforts to remove stigma from treatment seeking. 

According to SAMHSA, approximately 15% of construction workers in the United States are living with a substance use disorder. Similar data is reflected in Canadian reports. Recovery is possible and support for BAC members and their loved ones is here. If you are looking to discuss the possibility of treatment for substance use, please contact BAC MAP by calling 1-833-MAP-TALK, M-F, 8am-7pm ET. 

For additional information and resources, please visit the following links:

If you or someone you know is experiencing a life-threatening emergency, please call 911. You may also obtain immediate 24/7 help from the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling 988. 

December 2024: Seasonal Depression Awareness Month

SeasonalDepression

December 2024: Seasonal Depression Awareness Month

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a mental health condition related to seasonal changes. Since SAD is typically associated with depressive symptoms (such as persistent sadness, hopelessness, and/or an 'empty' feeling), it's commonly called seasonal depression. Shorter days and reduced exposure to sunlight are thought to cause chemical changes that may lead to a higher number of SAD cases during the winter months (as compared to other seasons), with December being Seasonal Depression Awareness Month. 

Changes in environment and circumstances can also contribute to the onset of seasonal depression. These could include seasonal layoffs or increased hazard exposure associated with frigid weather. The holiday season can also lead to feelings of isolation or inferiority, as well as bring about financial strain. 

The Bricklayers' Member Assistance Program (MAP) is here to support members and their loved ones who may be experiencing symptoms of seasonal depression or 'winter blues.' You are not alone and free, confidential help can be accessed by contacting BAC MAP at 1-833-MAP-TALK (generally available during business hours).

If you or someone you know is experiencing a life-threatening emergency, please call 911. You may also obtain immediate 24/7 help from the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling 988.