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September is National Suicide Prevention Month and as the month draws to a close, the American College of Occupational and Environmental Medicine (ACOEM) would like to bring attention to this important crisis, highlight the critical role employers and occupational health professionals play in addressing the issue, and emphasize the urgent need for expanded mental health support in workplaces across the country.
Suicide is a serious and preventable public health issue. According to the CDC, suicide affects people of all ages and is among the top leading cause of death for people ages 10 to 64 and is the second leading cause of death for people ages 23 to 34, and the number of suicides enacted at work is on the rise. Multiple factors, including substance use, are linked to a substantial number of suicides and suicide attempts.
"Most suicides occur among working-age adults, so it is critical that workplaces continue to provide mental health resources and access to necessary services," said Dr. Tanisha Taylor, President of ACOEM. "As we remember the lives lost, we must also work to prevent future tragedies by fostering environments where employees feel safe and supported in seeking help."
Workforce health and well-being for all is a sustainable business strategy, and a healthy, engaged workforce will positively impact the bottom line. In addition to the quality and safety of the physical environment, there has been an increasing emphasis on workplace well-being, such as well-being promotion, intervention, and strategies. Additionally, companies should be aware that OSHA recently added psychological hazards to its standards.
ACOEM encourages employers to take important steps to make suicide prevention a health and safety priority by creating a respectful work environment and fostering social inclusion. Specific steps include communication, self-care orientation, well-being, job strain reduction, mental health and crisis response, as well as equipping frontline supervisors. By doing so, companies can help save lives, improve well-being, and create healthier work environments for their employees.
By prioritizing mental health in workplace policies and support programs, and by promoting open communication around mental health challenges, companies can help save lives and improve worker well-being.
For more information on workplace mental health resources, visit these important resources:
- 988 Suicide Crisis Hotline
- Crisis Text Line: Text “TALK” to 741741
- Crisistextline.org from anywhere in the US