Support for
the Unexpected
SUICIDE NOT ONLY IMPACTS FAMILY MEMBERS, BUT ALSO COLLEAGUES
ACROSS THE COMPANY FOR WHICH THE INDIVIDUAL WORKED
People don’t often talk about suicide. It’s a difficult topic that,
for many, is both awkward and frightening. Talking about
it only after it happens is too little, too late. When it happens
to someone in the workplace, the mental well-being
of other colleagues can be at stake and have a negative, long-term
impact on the company’s productivity.
According to Statistics Canada, approximately 4,000 Canadians
die by suicide annually, mostly by those between the ages of 40 to
59 years old. While the topic is not an easy one, employers and
human resources personnel must take any necessary measures to
address suicide prevention and postvention in the workplace.
“Outside of work, suicidal thoughts could be fueled by relationship
or financial issues. At work, if the person strongly identifies
with their work self, suicidal thoughts may stem from a humiliating
experience such as a demotion or bullying, or from a sense
of unmanageable expectations,” said Dr. Sally Spencer-Thomas,
By Danny Weill
perspectives
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Strategies and tactics to counsel and support
survivors are extremely vital and may include
group or one-on-one counselling
HRPROFESSIONALNOW.CA ❚ APRIL 2019 ❚ 47
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