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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. 

November 4-8, 2024: International Stress Awareness Week

The Bricklayers' Member Assistance Program (MAP) recognizes International Stress Awareness Week in support of members who may need help with responding to the pressures of everyday life. While emotional stress is a normal reaction to certain life events or situations, managing it effectively can sometimes present a challenge. If stress is not effectively managed over time, it can have negative impacts on physical health, behavioral health, relationships, and other important areas of one's life. 

Please contact BAC MAP by calling 1-833-MAP-TALK for stress management support services if recently you have been consistently feeling:

• Strained
• Inadequate
• Overextended
• Insecure
• Stuck
• Swamped by responsibilities
• As though the odds are stacked against you 
• That there is not enough time to get everything done
• As though you cannot cope
• Weighed down by all that is on your mind
• Powerless
• Overcommitted
• As though things keep piling up
• As though you do not have time to breathe
• As though things are going very poorly
• As though you are carrying too heavy a load 
• As though you want to give up
• On edge
• As though you cannot concentrate or solve problems

Additional potential warning signs and symptoms of undealt with stress (indicating help may be needed) include:

• Chest heaviness or pain
• Shoulder, neck, back, or general pain
• Headaches
• Jaw clenching or teeth grinding
• Shortness of breath
• Dizziness
• Feelings of tiredness, anxiousness, or depression
• Changes in eating and/or sleeping habits
• Gastrointestinal problems
• Using substances to relieve emotional pain

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. 

October 2024: National Depression Awareness Month

Depression (formally called a depressive disorder) is a common mental health condition impacting millions of people each year. Many individuals do not recognize the symptoms or gravity of depression, leading to missed opportunities to get connected to treatment and prolongment of needless or excessive suffering. Depression can create challenges in all areas of life, including at work and at home. Prevalence rates are thought to be elevated amongst construction workers, making education and awareness all the more important. 

Signs and symptoms of depression (which can be categorized as mild, moderate, or severe), may include experiencing a loss of pleasure or interest in activities, having trouble concentrating, experiencing a sense of extremely low self-worth, feeling hopeless about the future, disrupted sleeping or eating patterns, and/or feeling excessively tired or low energy. 

Myths about depression include that it is not a real or serious medical condition, and that strong people can snap themselves out of depression or do not experience it at all. None of these are true. Depression is a legitimate, complex illness predisposed by certain biological and environmental factors; and should be understood with the same level of seriousness as other medical conditions such as diabetes or heart disease. It affects all people, from all walks of life, does not indicate or reflect mental weakness, nor can it be treated by being told or asked to 'be tough.'

During National Depression Awareness Month, we acknowledge the importance of screenings as a key component of early intervention and improved outcomes. National Depression Screening Day takes place on October 10, 2024, and you can take an online depression screening by clicking here.

The IUBAC Member Assistance Program (MAP) is here to support all members and their loved ones who may be experiencing symptoms of depression. Help is available by calling 1-833-MAP-TALK, M-F, 8am-7pm ET. 

To learn more about depression, please visit the following links:

• National Institute of Mental Health
• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
• Mental Health America

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.