Partnership Benefits
PILMA sparks dynamic collaboration between unions and the pharmaceutical industry, from joint resolutions and research to hands-on training tours. Union workers power cutting-edge facilities, while the biopharmaceutical industry drives medical innovation, creating a vital partnership that benefits both sectors.
Here’s how this partnership benefits both workers and communities:
Biopharmaceutical innovations help union members stay healthy, avoiding injuries and reducing recovery time from illnesses.
After years of hard work, union retirees stay active and save money on medical care thanks to affordable pharmaceutical treatments.
A thriving biopharmaceutical sector boosts pension fund returns and helps health plans reduce costs.
Biopharmaceutical companies meet or exceed FDA requirements for cleanliness and quality.
PILMA members make significant private investments that save money for individuals, health plans, and government programs.
New drugs improve public health while reducing the need for costly and risky medical procedures.
$2 billion invested annually in private training, apprenticeship, certification, and education programs.
Mental Health Awareness and initiatives
Mental health resources and awareness are an important priority for the companies and union members of PILMA. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the construction industry has one of the highest rates of suicide in the country compared to other industries. In 2021, almost one-fifth (17.9%) of deaths by suicide where the occupational industry was reported were in construction, despite construction workers accounting for only 7.4% of the workforce.
PILMA’s industry partners are working hard to research and develop new and innovative treatments to prevent and treat mental health conditions. PILMA’s union partners are creating awareness and developing programs and resources to increase treatment and reduce the stigma around mental health care.
Our partnership is working at the nexus of these initiatives to bridge the gap between resources and access.
Mental Health Crisis & Suicide Prevention
The mental health crisis is hitting America’s workforce hard, and construction workers are among the most at-risk.
Statistics:
- Male construction workers die by suicide at a rate 65% higher than the average U.S. male worker.¹
- In June 2020, 40% of U.S. adults reported struggling with mental health or substance use.²
- That same month, 11% of U.S. adults seriously considered suicide.²
Suicide prevention and mental health challenges are job site safety issues. The companies and union members of PILMA are committed to raising awareness and providing resources to address mental health in the construction industry. Together, we are bridging the gap between resources and access, because no worker should ever struggle alone
Source 1: Suicide Rates by Industry and Occupation — National Violent Death Reporting System, 32 States, 2016 https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/69/wr/mm6903a1.htm Source 2: Mental Health, Substance Use, and Suicidal Ideation During the COVID-19 Pandemic — United States, June 24–30, 2020 https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/69/wr/mm6932a1.ht
UNION-LED SUPPORT PROGRAMS
UA Pipe PALS
United Association of Union Plumbers, Fitters, Welders and Service Technicians (UA) Pipe PALS initiative is an integral component of the UA’s mental health and suicide prevention initiative. Through education, training, and peer support, we strive to create a culture of support and break down the stigma surrounding mental health in the industry, driving systemic change.
For more information or to get involved,
Learn more: ua.org/pipe-pals
Contact: [email protected]
Construction Careline
A confidential, 24/7 helpline for anyone experiencing stress, anxiety, substance use, or suicidal thoughts.
For Help Now, Call: 1-833-444-6020
INDUSTRY-DRIVEN INNOVATION
Advancing Brain Science
PILMA’s biopharmaceutical partners are pioneering research into depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and more. These breakthroughs fuel earlier detection, better treatments, and stronger outcomes for patients nationwide.
PsychU
PsychU is a community and award-winning online resource library for mental health. Through exchanging information, experience, and ideas, our 82,000+ members aim to improve the future outlook for individuals with mental illnesses. With a focus on education, collaboration, and disseminating innovative best practices, PsychU supports providers through a robust library of evidence-based resources, including webinars, podcasts, and toolkits. Its mission aligns with PILMA’s commitment to advancing medical innovation and improving patient care through partnership and knowledge sharing.
Visit: psychu.org
Pilma Partners
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP)
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s mission is to save lives and bring hope to those affected by suicide. There’s no single cause for suicide. Suicide most often occurs when stressors and health issues converge to create an experience of hopelessness and despair. Depression is the most common condition associated with suicide, and it is often undiagnosed or untreated. Conditions like depression, anxiety, and substance problems, especially when unaddressed, increase the risk of suicide. Whether you’re facing mental health struggles, emotional distress, alcohol or drug use concerns, or need someone to talk to, counselors are here for you.
If you or someone you know needs support, call or text 988—you’re not alone.
