April 2025: International Month of Hope
Who couldn't use a little more hope in their lives?
Research shows that reported levels of hope and happiness have declined in recent years, and suicide rates have risen to their highest point in almost a century. There is a clear need to address what some have called a 'hopelessness epidemic.'
Hope is a powerful force that serves as a protective factor against depression and suicidality. It adds meaning and purpose to one's life, and enables individuals and communities to overcome challenges. The ability to cultivate hope may be the single most important tool one can carry, which is why the BAC Member Assistance Program (MAP) is proud to recognize April as the International Month of Hope.
Promoting the spread of messages of hope is an important part of BAC MAP's mission to support the wellbeing of our members and their loved ones. If you are experiencing hopelessness or would like to further discuss related topics, please contact BAC MAP at 1-833-MAP-TALK for caring, confidential help.
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.
April 2025: International Alcohol Awareness Month
Many people use alcohol in a way that creates challenges in their lives and/or puts their health and safety at risk. International Alcohol Awareness Month is an opportunity to evaluate your relationship with alcohol, and to determine a path forward should there be a need for change.
Although each person is different, below are some general warning signs and symptoms that may indicate problem drinking:
- Physical responses: Withdrawal from alcohol (such as shakiness, sweating, and palpitations) as well as increased tolerance to alcohol (needing more to achieve the same effect).
- Urgency: Compulsive need to begin drinking, as well as difficulty stopping (especially in the face of consequences or intentions to stop).
- Preoccupation: Having trouble focusing on things other than drinking alcohol.
- Neglectfulness: Neglecting duties and responsibilities as the result of drinking.
- Harmful/Risky Behaviors: Engaging in behaviors that are threatening to self and/or others as the result of drinking alcohol.
If you are concerned about alcohol use, complete an online screening by clicking here.
When a pattern of problem drinking is established, or a diagnosis of Alcohol Use Disorder is given by a licensed professional, intervention is often needed to help bring about change. While millions across the US and Canada (including construction workers) are negatively impacted by problem alcohol use each other, life-saving resources are available. BAC MAP stands in support of members who may need help for challenges related to alcohol use. If you or a loved one are in need, please contact 1-833-MAP-TALK for confidential help.
For addition resources related to International Alcohol Awareness Month, please visit:
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.
April 2025: International Counseling Awareness Month
Counseling is a psychological specialty that has allowed for life-improving and life-saving help for millions of people across North America and the world. And yet, it's often underused and under accessed, including by people who may benefit from it the most.
No matter the motive for seeking help, psychological counseling is an invaluable, research-based engine for health and wellbeing. BAC MAP welcomes International Counseling Awareness Month, and recognizes the many ways in which BAC members and their families have been helped through counseling services. BAC MAP also aims to help individuals overcome stigma related to help-seeking by recognizing counseling as a pathway of strength and success, rather than weakness or failure.
If you or a loved one may be seeking counseling or want to learn more, please contact BAC MAP at 1-833-MAP-TALK for confidential help.
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.
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.
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.
