The role of employers in suicide prevention: Building a supportive workplace culture
In recognition of Suicide Prevention Day, Healix hosted a webinar in collaboration with wellness partner Champion Health. The session provided crucial insights into how employers can better support employees experiencing suicidal ideation. With discussions centred around mental health awareness and creating a safe workplace, the webinar highlighted actionable steps to foster a culture of openness and compassion. By actively engaging in these conversations, businesses can make a profound impact on the wellbeing of their teams.
Recognising the signs
As employers and colleagues, we may not always notice when someone is struggling. But recognising early signs - such as withdrawal, a drop in productivity, or visible distress - can be life-saving. It’s essential to remain alert and empathetic, encouraging team members to look out for one another and open up if they see someone acting out of character.
Creating a safe space
Creating a workplace that encourages open conversations about mental health is key to preventing suicides. Employers can help by making sure employees feel safe sharing their struggles without fear of judgement. Normalising mental health discussions during team meetings, offering anonymous surveys, or simply checking in regularly can make all the difference in building a supportive culture.
Providing support
Beyond conversation, providing tangible support is essential. Employers can introduce resources such as Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs), mental health apps, or paid mental health days to show that care goes beyond words. Encouraging employees to take advantage of these resources without stigma is crucial in helping those who may be struggling.
Training for management
Managers and supervisors often have the closest relationship with employees, so training them to recognise signs of mental health issues and to respond with compassion is vital. Offering suicide prevention workshops, mental health first aid, or resilience training equips them to step in early, creating a more supportive environment for employees at all levels.
Promoting overall mental health
Prevention begins long before a crisis emerges. Employers can focus on promoting general mental wellbeing through initiatives such as flexible working, stress reduction programmes, and team-building activities that foster a sense of belonging. Regularly communicating that it’s okay to ask for help is key to preventing issues from escalating.
The CLASS approach
Many of us want to support others experiencing poor mental health but aren’t sure how to begin. That’s why wellness partner, Champion Health, created the CLASS approach to help guide those difficult conversations.
- Connect: Start by checking in, gently asking how they’re feeling.
- Listen: Offer empathetic, non-judgemental listening without trying to fix things.
- Assess: Gauge the level of distress and ask if they’ve sought professional help.
- Support: Reassure them they’re not a burden and you’re there to help.
- Signpost: Direct them to appropriate services like mental health helplines or a GP.
The following mental health helplines are contactable via phone, chat function, and SMS to provide support in times of need:
- Mind - mind.org.uk Call: 0300 102 1234
- Campaign Against Living Miserably - thecalmzone.net Call: 0800 58 58 58
- Shout - giveusashout.org Text ‘SHOUT’ to 85258
- Samaritans - samaritans.org Call: 116 123
By recognising the signs, opening up conversations, and providing support, employers can make a meaningful impact on suicide prevention. Every step toward a more productive workplace culture could be the one that saves a life.
