Mental health and suicidal thoughts remain taboo subjects in many contexts, despite their profound impact on individuals’ lives. Understanding the warning signs and knowing how to act as supportive individuals is crucial in creating a safe and caring environment, both in our personal lives and in the workplace. In this article, our psychologist discusses common signs of suicidal thoughts, how workplaces can help reduce the risk, and what we can all do to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health.
Signs of suicidal thoughts – What to watch For
Signs that someone may be considering suicide can be both verbal and behavioral. Individuals may express themselves directly by talking about hopelessness, not wanting to live anymore, or saying things like “I don’t see a way out” or “It would be better if I weren’t here.” More subtle signals could involve expressing feelings of being a burden or talking about the future as if it doesn’t exist.
Behavioral changes can include social withdrawal, a person stopping answering calls or messages, and a loss of interest in previously important activities. Increased alcohol consumption, drug use, and actions such as giving away possessions or writing a will may also be warning signs.
It’s important to remember that these signs don’t always mean the person is contemplating suicide, but they should still be taken seriously. In addition to asking how someone is feeling and diving deeper into their emotional state, don’t be afraid to ask direct questions like, “Are you thinking about taking your life?” to show care and open up a vital conversation.
How workplaces can create a supportive environment
Employers and colleagues play a key role in creating a supportive environment at work. Here are some important actions:
•Promote openness and dialogue: Create a culture where it’s okay to talk about mental health without fear of stigma. It’s important for managers and leaders to show empathy and encourage employees to seek help when needed.
•Training and awareness: By educating staff about the signs of mental health issues and suicide risk, awareness can be raised, and readiness to act can be improved. This also includes training leaders and HR staff to gain deeper knowledge and learn how to approach employees in crisis with sensitivity and empathy.
•Accessible support: Provide access to professional counseling, psychological support, and other resources. Flexible working hours and the ability to take sick leave for mental health reasons are also important to creating a safe work environment.
•Work-life balance: Encourage a healthy balance between work and personal life to reduce the risk of burnout, a known risk factor for suicide.
How we can reduce the stigma around mental health
Reducing the stigma around mental health and suicide is crucial for encouraging more people to seek help. Here’s what we can all do:
•Talk openly about mental health: By normalizing conversations about mental health and sharing personal experiences when appropriate, we can create an environment where others feel less alone in their feelings.
•Encourage seeking help: If someone shows signs of mental health issues, encourage them to seek professional help and show that you are there to support them throughout the process.
•Be mindful of the language we use: Avoid stigmatizing language that may diminish or trivialize mental health. The language we use can influence how comfortable others feel discussing their problems.
By collectively taking responsibility and being open to discussing these difficult topics, we can contribute to a more understanding and supportive world for those struggling with mental health. It is through awareness and compassion that we can make a difference.
