Workplace as Safe Haven: How Managers Can Mitigate Risk for Employee Suicide

Abstract

This article emphasizes the role that managers can play in mitigating risk for suicidal behavior among employees. The literature has long established a relationship between negative workplace conditions and psychological difficulties, such as depressive disorders and suicidal behavior. Based upon a review of these studies, as well as consideration of best practices in suicide prevention, the authors developed the Safe Haven Model (SHM) for managers who are interested in implementing suicide prevention initiatives in the workplace. The SHM is an approach to workplace suicide prevention that consists of three objectives: creating a positive and supportive work environment conducive to psychological well-being, increasing managers’ and coworkers’ awareness of risk factors for suicide, and promoting utilization of mental health support services. By eliminating psychosocial stressors, providing gatekeeper training, and offering Employee Assistance Programs for mental health needs, managers can establish the workplace as a protective factor that serves to reduce the likelihood of employee suicide.

KEYWORDS:

• employee
• protective factors
• suicide prevention
• suicide risk
• workplace