{"id":8838,"date":"2021-09-27T13:49:00","date_gmt":"2021-09-27T17:49:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.healthadvocate.com\/site\/?p=8838"},"modified":"2021-09-28T13:56:56","modified_gmt":"2021-09-28T17:56:56","slug":"the-role-of-employers-in-suicide-prevention","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.healthadvocate.com\/site\/article\/the-role-of-employers-in-suicide-prevention","title":{"rendered":"The role of employers in suicide prevention"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

By understanding the warning signs and implementing programs to support employees, organizations can make a positive impact.<\/strong><\/em><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

By\u00a0Bert Alicea<\/strong>\u00a0|\u00a0BenefitsPRO<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The challenges of the last year have changed the conversation about mental health in the workplace, prompting an increasing number of organizations to introduce or expand initiatives to support employees\u2019\u00a0mental well-being<\/a>. September is Suicide Prevention Month, and now more than ever, it is important to remember that increased stress and anxiety as well as conditions like depression can contribute to suicidal thoughts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Brokers and benefits consultants are uniquely positioned to partner with their clients to provide critical resources, including workplace training, counseling and more. By proactively putting programs into place that support employees, as well as raise awareness of the possible warning signs of suicide, organizations can help make sure those at risk get the help they need and take steps to prevent tragedy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The ongoing need for mental health and well-being support<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Employees consistently benefit from mental health and well-being support, regardless of the environmental circumstances happening at the moment. Brokers and benefits consultants who work with their clients to implement long-term resources like Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) and more can ensure no gaps in care, regardless of what comes next.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mental illness affects millions of Americans, even before the COVID pandemic, yet not all are receiving the support and help they need to address these common issues. Approximately 20% of adults <\/a>in the U.S. experience mental illness each year, yet only 43% of those impacted<\/a> have sought treatment. Further, 65% of U.S. employees <\/a>report that work is a significant source of stress.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The need for mental health support has been exacerbated in the last year by COVID-19 and other challenging situations occurring simultaneously. As expected, employees are experiencing an increase in stress, anxiety, relationship issues and depression as a result of the pandemic. According to Health Advocate\u2019s data, in some instances, these types of cases more than doubled from 2019 to 2020.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Because many of these conditions have the potential to lead to suicidal thoughts, it is critical to consider the full breadth of needs and provide comprehensive programs to address challenges across this broad spectrum. Over the past year, many organizations have introduced resources and programs to support employees, both in-person and working remotely, including teletherapy, stress management and more. Addressing the conditions and related factors that may lead to suicidal thoughts can make a big difference in awareness and prevention.about:blank<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Identifying potential warning signs<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, there had been a steady increase in suicides in the workplace. Based on data from the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, there were 307 occurrences<\/a> in 2019, the highest in more than 25 years since this information was first measured. Factors that may contribute to this increase include high stress levels either at home or work, pre-existing mental health conditions such as depression, and access to the means to commit suicide, such as firearms or prescription medications. Additionally, research shows that people in certain occupations, such as law enforcement, are at higher risk for suicide than others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

While there were fewer suicides overall in 2020, as the stress and anxiety of the last year continues, understanding the potential signs and red flags can make the difference in preventing a tragedy. There are some key signs that can indicate an employee may be at risk of suicide or self-harm, including:<\/p>\n\n\n\n