World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD) is on Wednesday 10th September

Changing the Narrative on Suicide. 

Starting a conversation about suicide is not an easy thing: even though the stigma around poor mental health may have started to reduce over the last decade in many workplaces, there often remains a huge stigma around suicide. For those in distress, this is still a major barrier to seeking help.

World Suicide Awareness Day can provide a platform for organisations to challenge this stigma and have conversations about a topic which, for many, may ordinarily feel uncomfortable.

Suicide, or thoughts of suicide are not uncommon. Here are some figures from the IASP:

·       727,000 deaths worldwide in 2021 were because of suicide.

·       It is estimated that 1 in 15 people have tried to end their life.

·       1 in 5 people will struggle with suicidal ideation in their lifetime.

·       Between 10-13% of suicides are work-related. 

Is the workplace the right place to have those conversations?

In short, yes. We spend more of our lives at work and more than 58% of suicides are by people of working age- there are more opportunities to prevent suicide at work than anywhere else. Suicide, whether it involves a colleague, a family member, or a client, has a tragic impact on the workplace community. The human cost can be devastating and lasting.

There is also a significant economic impact. The average cost for each loss through suicide in England it is estimated to be £1.46 million, and in the United States it is estimated at $1.28 million. A significant portion of that loss is borne directly by employers. 

Employers are uniquely positioned to open-up or change the narrative around suicide: when we openly address sensitive issues like suicide in the professional environment, it signals safety and legitimacy, helping to normalise conversations that might feel taboo. 

How can employers mark world suicide prevention day?

The day is an opportunity for workplaces increase suicide awareness at work and to challenge stigma, share resources, and start to have important conversations. We have outlined some of the things you could do here:

Starting a conversation about suicide

Contrary to what some may believe, talking about suicide will not increase the risk of someone acting on suicidal thoughts. Instead, speaking openly about suicide – using clear, non-stigmatising language – can be lifesaving. The International Association for the Prevention of Suicide provides guidance on how to use safe, de-stigmatising language when talking about suicide.

Promote support

Use the day to encourage support-seeking behaviour and remind employees of available resources such as Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), access to counsellors, or private medical insurance. You can also signpost to external resources too, including crisis support, such as Samaritans, CALM, or local crisis helplines.

Share stories

Sharing stories and experiences of how suicide can be interrupted can be very powerful. It may be difficult for an employee to share a story that relates to suicide, but you can use blogs, videos, and talks from mental health organisations such as CALM, the National Action Alliance for Suicide Prevention or The Samaritans. You could also invite a speaker to a virtual event. Contact us if you would like recommendations for speakers.

Build confidence through training

Suicide awareness training helps normalise conversations, equips employees to recognise signs of distress, and gives them the confidence to start a conversation and signpost someone to support. Since colleagues often spend significant time together, the workplace can be where early signs are first noticed, and where timely support can be offered.

The Zero Suicide Alliance offers free training (less than 30 mins), which we know that many organisations have shared with their employees.

After Suicide Prevention Day

Effective suicide prevention in the workplace goes beyond the awareness day and responding to people in immediate crisis. Organisations have an opportunity to create workplaces where people feel safe to speak up, supported by positive working conditions, and access to the support they need to thrive in their jobs. Contact us for more information on employee mental health and wellbeing support.

Useful resources

The International Alliance for Suicide Prevention’s information about WSPD

Wikimedia provides a wider list of global mental health resources broken down by countries

The Samaritans  A UK based charity that will support people (in English) from anywhere in the world.

James Elder MBACP

www.theelderconsultancy.com