Networks of safety: Enhancing social networks and changing social norms in a suicide prevention program for Australian construction workers

Suicide is a significant global public health issue. The United Nations, and the World Health Organisation, have set a target to reduce suicide by one third as part of global sustainability targets. Suicide ideation and suicide behaviour are strongly associated with social disconnection. This social disconnection is most often seen from a perspective of the individual’s inability or perception of social connection. This study extends that perspective to examine how social networks interact with the individual. The study used social network theory to understand how workers in the MATES in Construction suicide prevention program incorporated the program into their social networks and how this impacted social norms within these networks. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 28 construction workers. Reflexive Thematic Analysis was used to interpret the data. Four themes were constructed relating to: 1) the importance of creating networks of safety in the workplace, 2) how helping norms became part of business-as-usual in the workplace, 3) the need to create space and relationships for helping and 4) how a culture of help-offering can support help-acceptance. Social Network Theory may explain how the MATES program has supported change in the industry from previous decades where seeking help was seen as a weakness to a culture where help-acceptance is seen as a part of masculinity and a strength. • Suicide network theory may explain impact of suicide prevention program. • Creating networks of suicide safety gave workers confidence in their ability to act. • Construction workers build suicide prevention into business-as-usual. • Workplace program in male dominated industry promoted help offering and acceptance.