In retrospect of National Suicide Prevention Month, research shows that close to 800 000 people die due to suicide every year. People often spend a large portion of their day at a workplace and, in doing so, get to know other employees overtime. As a result, they may be in a good position to notice changes in behavior that could suggest risk for suicide or other mental health problems.
Why Address Suicide Prevention
- Workers are an employer’s most valuable asset.
- Creating a culture of health and safety is both humane and good for business.
- Good mental and physical health can help enhance workforce productivity.
- Many workplaces already have structures and resources in place to help employees get the help they need, so suicide prevention can be connected with them.
How Employers Can Take Action
The best way to prevent suicide is to use a comprehensive approach that includes these key components:
- Create a work environment that fosters communication, a sense of belonging and connectedness, and respect
- Identify and assist employees who may be at risk for suicide
- Be prepared to respond to a suicide death
Learn more: https://www.sprc.org/settings/workplaces
