Workplaces can be a significant source of stress, and colleagues might struggle with mental health issues, including suicidal thoughts. The theme for World Mental Health Day 2024, “It is Time to Prioritise Mental Health in the Workplace”, highlights the importance of addressing these issues. Supporting a colleague or friend who is struggling can make a significant difference in their life.
Watch out for the Signs
Being aware of the signs that a colleague might be struggling with their mental health is the first step in providing support. These signs can include:
- Decreased Productivity and Performance: A noticeable drop in work quality, missing deadlines, or a lack of motivation.
- Frequent Absences or Lateness: Regularly arriving late or taking more sick days than usual.
- Withdrawal from Social Interactions: Avoiding team activities, lunches, or social gatherings.
- Noticeable Changes in Mood or Behaviour: Sudden mood swings, irritability, or appearing unusually sad or anxious.
- Mentioning Feelings of Hopelessness: Talking about feeling trapped, hopeless, or expressing a desire to end their life.
Asking About Thoughts of Suicide
Direct Questions
It’s crucial to ask directly if someone is contemplating suicide. Questions like “Are you having thoughts of suicide?” or “Are you thinking about killing yourself?” can open up a necessary dialogue.
Addressing Misconceptions
Asking someone about suicide does not implant the idea in their head. Instead, it provides an opportunity for them to share their feelings and feel understood.
Staying Calm
Maintain a calm and empathetic demeanour when discussing suicidal thoughts. Your composed attitude can have a reassuring effect on the person in crisis.
What to Say if Someone is Suicidal
Show Empathy
Express your concern and willingness to listen. You might say, “I’m here for you. Can you tell me what you’re going through?”
Validate Their Feelings
Acknowledge their pain without judgement. Say things like, “It sounds like you’re going through a really tough time, and it’s okay to feel this way.”
Avoid Dismissing Their Feelings
Never say things like, “You shouldn’t feel this way” or “Others have it worse.” Instead, offer support and understanding.
Offer Hope
Reassure them that help is available and that things can get better. You could say, “There are people who care about you and want to help.”
Follow Up
Continuous support is vital for someone struggling with mental health issues:
- Regular Check-Ins: Continue to check in regularly to show ongoing support. This helps them feel valued and reminds them that they are not alone.
- Maintain Confidentiality: Ensure their privacy is respected, and information is shared only with their consent. Trust is crucial in maintaining a supportive relationship.
How to Keep the Person Safe
Immediate Risk
If there’s an immediate risk of the person acting on suicidal thoughts, do not leave them alone. Act quickly and seek help.
Safety Plan
Work together to create a safety plan that includes coping strategies and trusted individuals they can reach out to in times of crisis.
Support Network
Identify who or what has supported the person in the past and see if these supports are still available. Ask how they would like to be supported and if there’s anything you can do to help.
Professional Help
Encourage Professional Help
Encourage the person to seek professional help as soon as possible. Provide information about local mental health services and crisis helplines.
Persistent Encouragement
If they are reluctant to seek help, continue to encourage them. Offer to help them make appointments or accompany them to see a professional.
Adolescents and Reluctance
For adolescents, ensure someone close to them is aware of the situation. If they refuse professional help, seek assistance from a mental health professional.
Managing Confidentiality
If the person asks you to keep their suicidal thoughts a secret, explain why you can’t agree to this. Involve them in decisions about who else should be informed to ensure their safety.
Practical Support and Training
Providing practical support and training can empower you to help colleagues effectively. Our courses are designed to equip individuals with the skills needed to support those in distress:
- Accidental Counsellor Course: This course is perfect for workplaces, providing practical skills to support colleagues in distress. It covers how to handle difficult conversations and offer immediate support.
- Standard Mental Health First Aid Course: This course equips participants with the knowledge to assist anyone experiencing mental health issues. It includes strategies for recognising the signs of mental health problems and providing initial help.
Creating a Supportive Workplace Culture
By fostering a culture that prioritises mental health, we can create a supportive environment where colleagues feel valued and cared for. This involves:
- Promoting Open Communication: Encourage a workplace culture where discussing mental health is normal and accepted.
- Providing Resources and Training: Ensure that employees have access to mental health resources and training programmes.
- Leading by Example: Management should model positive behaviours and support initiatives that prioritise mental health.
Supporting a colleague or friend who is struggling with mental health and suicidal thoughts requires sensitivity, understanding, and prompt action. By recognising the signs, asking direct questions, providing empathetic support, and encouraging professional help, you can make a significant difference in their life. Remember, taking care of your own mental health is equally important to provide effective support.