Suicide prevention at work

Every workplace is part of the safety net. You don’t need to be a clinician to help; you need presence, clarity and a plan. When colleagues feel noticed and supported, it can make a profound difference at difficult moments.

This guide focuses on what managers and peers can realistically do.

Know the signs

Warning signs can include noticeable changes in behaviour: withdrawal, anger, giving away possessions, talking about feeling trapped or a burden, or drastic mood shifts. Context matters too - recent loss, relationship breakdown, substance use, financial strain or unresolved burnout can all increase risk.

These signs don’t always mean someone is thinking about suicide, but they do mean it’s time to pay attention.

Start the conversation

Being direct and compassionate is key. Open a door and show that you’re willing to talk about what’s going on.

Listen and stay

If you’re worried about someone, stay with them. Give them full attention. Avoid fixing, debating or minimising. Instead, acknowledge their feelings and move towards practical support.

Get help together

Agree immediate steps:

·       Call a crisis line together

·       Contact their GP

·       Reach a trusted person

·       Go to A&E if risk is acute

·       At work, inform HR or a designated safeguarding lead as appropriate. Safety comes before tasks.

After the crisis

Once immediate risk has reduced, people still need support. Creating a simple plan - temporary workload adjustments, clear points of contact, and scheduled follow‑ups help them return to work safely.

For teams affected by a critical incident, facilitated spaces and signposting to support can help process what’s happened.

Boundaries for helpers

You can care deeply and still keep boundaries. Involving professionals early, sharing responsibility with HR or safeguarding leads, and debriefing with a trained colleague or counsellor all help prevent helpers from carrying too much alone.

 

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