What are the "Solid Foundations" workshops in Nova Scotia?

Solid Foundations are workshops in Nova Scotia's construction sector aimed at changing traditional masculine norms that negatively impact mental health and workplace culture.

Why is mental health a concern in Nova Scotia's construction industry?

High rates of substance abuse, harassment, and reluctance to discuss mental health issues are prevalent among construction workers in Nova Scotia.

How can changing culture help Nova Scotia construction?

Changing the culture can improve worker well-being, reduce harassment, and attract a more diverse workforce to the trades in Nova Scotia.

Home / Health / Nova Scotia Trades: Cracking the Code on Mental Health

Nova Scotia Trades: Cracking the Code on Mental Health

8 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Workshops aim to change traditional masculine norms in construction.
Construction workers face high rates of substance abuse and harassment.
Improved culture could attract more diverse groups to trades.

Nova Scotia's construction industry is undergoing a cultural transformation, aiming to address the detrimental effects of traditional masculine norms. Workshops like "Solid Foundations" are being offered to challenge attitudes that equate toughness with stoicism and self-reliance, often discouraging emotional expression or help-seeking. These norms have been linked to concerning mental health statistics within the sector.

Data reveals that a significant percentage of construction workers report substance abuse to cope with stress, alongside experiencing discrimination and discomfort discussing mental health. Similar patterns are observed in other male-dominated fields, highlighting a widespread need for cultural change. This initiative emphasizes building better communicators with higher emotional intelligence.