Suicide Prevention in the Workplace: A Conversation That Matters

September is National Suicide Prevention Month, a time for both reflection and proactive steps. Suicide prevention is a shared responsibility across all areas of life, including the workplace. Mental health impacts everyone, and open, informed dialogue is a vital part of supporting our well-being.

In a recent podcast episode from the Workplace Violence Prevention Team, Kimberly McLennan, Trainer for the Workplace Violence Prevention Team, spoke with Elizabeth Sheesley, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and team member, to explore the significance of Suicide Awareness Month. Elizabeth drew from her professional experience to explain how both individuals and organizations can contribute to suicide prevention efforts.

The discussion emphasized that this month is not just about raising awareness, it is also about taking action. Mental health is present in every environment, including the workplace, and acknowledging this is an important step toward creating safer spaces.

One of the challenges in addressing suicide is the stigma that surrounds how I it is discussed. For example, the language used can unintentionally reinforce harmful narratives. Terms that imply criminality, such as outdated phrases, should be replaced with more accurate and respectful language to reduce stigma and encourage people to seek help.

Recognizing the Signs

Understanding warning signs of someone in crisis is crucial. These signs might be subtle and can include social withdrawal, giving away personal belongings, or significant changes in mood. In a workplace setting, even smaller behavioral shifts, like missed deadlines or sudden disengagement, can be red flags. Noticing and responding to these changes can make a real difference.

The Role of the Workplace

Workplaces can play a key role in suicide prevention by fostering a culture that encourages open conversation about mental health. When employees feel safe to speak up, prevention becomes more possible. With suicide rates increasing significantly, 36% nationally since 2000, and over 4,200 deaths in California alone in 2023, it is clear, supportive workplace environments are needed more than ever.

Providing training, resources, and clear mental health protocols can help employees feel supported and ensure that managers are prepared to respond effectively.

What Individuals Can Do

There are several concrete ways individuals can support suicide prevention. Learning the signs of mental health struggles and completing training such as Mental Health First Aid can be beneficial. The Workplace Violence Prevention Team offers a Mental Health First Aid course and currently has open enrollment to sign-up for.

Starting regular conversations about mental health in the workplace helps normalize these discussions. Additionally, maintaining daily habits that support overall wellness, such as getting enough sleep, eating well, and staying connected with others, can contribute to emotional resilience.

Responding to a Crisis

If someone shares that they are experiencing suicidal thoughts, it’s important to respond with calm, empathy, and without judgment. Connecting them with professional help is the next step, and services like the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (988) provide immediate, confidential support.

Final Thoughts

The conversation closed with a reminder that no one is alone in facing mental health challenges, whether you are the one struggling, supporting someone else, or working to improve your workplace culture. The message is clear: fostering connection and breaking the silence around suicide can save lives.

For those who need immediate support, calling or texting 988 provides 24/7 access to trained professionals. Sharing this message and starting conversations in your own circles can help build more compassionate and mentally healthy workplaces.

If you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text 988. It’s free, confidential, and available 24/7.

Want to hear the podcast?
👉 [Listen to the Podcast Episode Here]

Together, we can create safer, more compassionate workplaces, where mental health is prioritized, and help is always within reach.

Helpful Resources

Employee Resource Groups: https://health.ucdavis.edu/belonging/employee-resource-groups

Ombuds: https://ombuds.ucdavis.edu/

Employee & Labor Relations (ELR): Human Resources - Employee & Labor Relations

Principles of Community: UC Davis Principles of Community | Human Resources

Additional Resources:

Mental Health First Aid class: Sign Up Now!

Workplace Violence Prevention: https://hr.ucdavis.edu/departments/elr/workplaceviolence/

Academic and Staff Assistance Program (ASAP): https://www.hr.ucdavis.edu/departments/asap

Counselor drop-ins: https://ucdavis.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_byI2jDrEAPyQzMa?Q_CHL=qr

Support U Peer Responder Program: clinicalwellbeing@ucdavis.edu

Harassment & Discrimination Assistance and Prevention Program: https://hdapp.ucdavis.edu/

Workplace Violence Prevention Program

• Reporting Workplace Violence
• Training & Preventing Workplace Violence
• Resources & Support
• About Workplace Violence & Tools

Contact the Workplace Violence Prevention Unit:

• workplaceviolenceprevention@ucdavis.edu