CSPP had the pleasure of filming our Spanish Toolbox Talks on the set of (add)ventures in Rhode Island. (add)ventures is a production company known for its professional, high-tech production sets and filming capabilities.
We filmed 22 toolbox talks in both English and Spanish in just one and a half days—an impressive feat that was only possible because of our two talented speakers, Jenny Camarena, our bilingual mental health trainer at Lines for Life, and Irene McGuire, a foreman with Anderson Construction. Their on-screen chemistry was evident and contributed to a smooth and efficient filming process.
Behind the scenes, our team included a designer who created a virtual construction site background and a creative designer who added props to give the set the authentic feel of an active jobsite. With Jenny’s clinical expertise in mental health and Irene’s 17 years of construction experience, we were able to combine evidence-based mental health information with real-world insights into the realities of working in construction, particularly for Spanish-speaking workers.
Language is a significant barrier that prevents many construction professionals from accessing mental health resources. CSPP’s goal is to make mental health support as accessible and standardized on every jobsite as a first aid kit. To achieve that goal, we must address the language barriers that prevent many workers in the construction community from getting the help they need.
Spanish-speaking workers make up approximately 30% of the construction workforce, and 40% of workers do not speak English as their first language. That represents a substantial portion of the industry that may be unable to access mental health resources because those resources are available only in English. Additionally, culture plays an important role in how people view mental health and suicide. Addressing mental health from a culturally relevant perspective helps break down barriers, reduce stigma, and make these conversations more relatable and meaningful.
Our goal is to launch these videos during Suicide Prevention Month in September, alongside our two new Spanish Mental Health Assessments. The toolbox talk videos will serve as an additional resource on our website and will also be featured in the assessment results, providing workers with immediate access to relevant education and support. Special thank you to The Hastings Equity Group for sponsoring this project.
