10th September marks World Suicide Prevention Day, hoping to raise awareness and promote action so as to reduce the number of lives lost to suicide. This annual health initiative was started by the World Health Organisation in 2003.
It is estimated 703,000 people around the world take their life each year. For every suicide, there are around 20 more people attempting suicide. Millions of people suffer from grief, or are otherwise significantly impacted following a suicidal event.
‘Creating Hope Through Action’ is the theme this year, as it has been since 2021. The aim is to remind people that there is an alternative to suicide, and to inspire confidence. By creating hope and starting the conversation around suicide, those suffering with their mental health may feel supported and less alone. The WHO has emphasised the importance of making suicide prevention a priority in the wider public health agenda. Furthermore, by starting open, supportive conversations around suicide, we as a society can help those bereaved by suicide, be that as friend, family member, colleague, or health professional.
As an employer, it is important to create an open, caring work environment. If you are aware an employee is struggling with their mental health, a management referral is recommended. Through this process, an employer can receive advice on adjustments that may help an employee – for example, reduced hours, flexible working arrangements, time off for appointments. Following a consultation, occupational health are able to advise on fitness to work, interpretation of medical information, and any reasonable adjustments.
If you need advice – perhaps an employee is currently signed off sick with mental health issues, or recently returned to work following bereavement – we are happy to discuss how we can help. You can get in touch with us here.
Mind, the mental health charity, offer a number of useful resources for supporting wellbeing in the workplace – you can find those here.