Let's Talk About Workplace Suicide

Author: Ryan McCarty

Suicide is a difficult subject to talk about. It's uncomfortable, and it can bring up strong feelings in those like me who have been directly impacted after losing my mom and brother to suicide. But we need to talk about it more often and with more empathy if we want to prevent suicide in the workplace and provide support for those who are suffering from mental health issues. This takes a leader who cares enough about people to talk about it.

Suicide Prevention in the Workplace

Suicide prevention at work refers to efforts made by individuals and organizations to help prevent suicide or assist those who may be contemplating it. Suicide is the second-leading cause of death for people aged 15 to 34. It's also one of the top 10 leading causes of death in the U.S., with more than 45,000 lives lost annually.

Mental health resources can be provided by your HR Department and through an EAP program but also need to be supported and promoted by all senior leaders. These resources can include activities such as education about risk factors, safekeeping guidance for at-risk populations (such as veterans), crisis intervention training for first responders, postvention support following suicide deaths or attempted suicides -- anything that helps reduce people's risk factors so they're less likely to attempt suicide in the future.

Leaders need to be able to watch for warning signs of mental health issues in team members.

As leaders, we must be able to watch for warning signs of mental health issues in team members. It's important that we recognize when someone is struggling with mental health issues and help them find the help they need. We also need to be aware of the different types of support available so we can direct our team members toward the best options available. Download this chart from the National Institute of Mental Health as a resource guide.

Companies should destigmatize talking about mental health and suicide and offer employees lifelines to find help when needed.

If you're struggling with mental health issues or suicidal thoughts, the first thing you need to do is ask for help. You can't do this alone--and that's okay! There are resources out there that can help you find the support you need. Memorize 988 as your lifeline you can call or text 24/7 if you are in a mental health crisis or are contemplating suicide. Say “988” out loud right now 3x to remember it the next time you need help.

The next step is to find someone who will listen without judgment, so don't be afraid to reach out and talk about your feelings with someone like a family member or friend who knows you well enough not just as "the peer from work." It might also help if you consider who you know who has expertise in mental health services or can point you to someone who does!

We need to change how we talk about mental health issues and suicide so that we can all better understand how to deal with them.

As leaders at work, we need to change how we talk about mental health issues and suicide so that we can all better understand how to deal with them. Just by promoting mental health resources and having meaningful conversations with your team members, your company can provide a safe, supportive place for everyone. This is especially important for those who need support when facing such a crisis.

We can destigmatize talking about mental health and suicide and offer our employees lifelines to find help when needed. By doing this, we will be better equipped to handle these situations when they arise and hopefully save lives in the process.

Listen to Episode 46 of Champion Your Culture: What Your Company Needs To Know About Suicide Prevention