Suicide Prevention in the Workplace: The Importance of Checking In

September is Suicide Prevention Month, a time to encourage conversations about suicide, mental health and the support available to those who may be struggling. While suicide prevention is not solely a workplace responsibility, workplaces have an important role to play. We spend a significant part of our lives at work, and our colleagues can sometimes be the people who notice when something doesn't seem quite right.

(Image from Suicide Prevention Month | Samaritans )

Sometimes, the signs are not obvious

Someone who is struggling may still attend meetings, respond to emails and get through their usual workload.

They may not look like they are having a difficult time.

That's why checking in matters.

A simple “How are you doing?” can open the door to a conversation. It doesn't mean having all the answers or trying to solve someone's problems. Sometimes, listening without judgement is enough to help someone feel heard.

If you notice a colleague becoming withdrawn, unusually quiet or overwhelmed, taking a moment to check in can be a meaningful gesture.

Creating a workplace where people can speak openly

A supportive workplace is not one where nobody experiences difficult periods. It is one where people feel able to speak up when they are struggling.

At WORKPLACE, we have Mental Health First Aiders trained across the business who can provide a listening ear and signpost colleagues to relevant information, resources and professional support when needed.

For employers and managers, creating a supportive culture can also mean making wellbeing part of everyday workplace conversations, ensuring people know what support is available and taking concerns about stress and wellbeing seriously.

We don't have to have the perfect words

It can feel uncomfortable to ask someone if they are okay, particularly when we are worried about saying the wrong thing.

But we don't need to be experts.

We can listen. We can show compassion. We can encourage someone to seek professional support. And when a situation is beyond what we can manage ourselves, we can involve the appropriate people or services.

Most importantly, we can remind our colleagues that they don't have to face difficult moments alone.

If you or someone you know needs support

In the UK, Samaritans is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, by calling 116 123, free from any phone.

If someone is in immediate danger or requires urgent medical assistance, call 999 or go to A&E.

For workplace concerns, employees can also speak with their manager, HR team, occupational health service or Employee Assistance Programme, where available.

This Suicide Prevention Month, let's make checking in part of our everyday workplace culture — not just something we do in September.