10th September is World Suicide Prevention Day, and here at GCS Malta, we want to shed some light on mental wellbeing at the workplace with the help of the professionals at the Richmond Foundation.
When one struggles in their personal life, those signs of struggle likely make their way into their work-life. An employee will spend an average of 40 hours a week at their workplace, making it very likely to experience signs and symptoms of poor mental health in that environment.
Employers and HR professionals know that they come across a wide range of issues that their employees face, both personal and professional. Mental wellbeing at the workplace has been gaining more priority on the corporate agenda in recent years, especially in the past 18 months.
The most crucial factor to look out for in an employee who might be struggling is change. More specifically, a change in their everyday behaviour. For example, have you noticed that the person has stopped doing something they used to enjoy doing, seems to have lost motivation or has been increasingly agitated? Maybe they’re struggling to keep up with a workload they previously had no problem managing, or they’re struggling to focus. Compare what was ‘the norm’ for the person with what you are observing now.
How should we go about it? It’s simpler than one would think – start a conversation. Most people struggle to start a conversation, not wanting to intrude on the person’s privacy or worrying they might say the wrong thing. However, it can be straightforward. If you see someone you are worried about, start by asking them a simple, “how are you?” or “Kif int?” and then listen to what the person tells you to their body language—allowing the space where the employee can talk freely and without judgement can be a source of incredible relief, and can help them seek the support they need.
10th September is World Suicide Prevention Day, and we would like to approach the subject as this can save a life. Suicidal thoughts can directly cause untreated mental health problems, but not only and suicidal thoughts are common. Having suicidal thoughts does not mean that a person will act on them, but this doesn’t make it any less severe, and we need to bring the person to help to depend on the urgency of their state.
Contrary to common belief, making direct statements about ending one’s life or indirect comments like “What’s the point of living?” and “They are better off without me” are not attention-seeking behaviours and should be taken seriously. If we believe the person is seeking attention, it’s likely to be a call for help, and if so, we need to listen.
Other signs can include giving away valuable possessions and showing interest in end-of-life matters such as making a will. In addition, the person might appear uncharacteristically sad, withdrawn or upset – alongside neglect in their work or even physical appearance. Voicing hopelessness, helplessness may also be other noticeable signs of suicidal thoughts. It is also good to keep an eye out for those we know have been going through a rough time and suddenly appear much better because they might have formulated a plan to end their lives. In this case, the best way forward is to ask the person directly if they have thought of suicide or are thinking of killing themselves. As shocking as this may sound – it can save a life.
Suicidal thoughts are not irreversible, so if someone you know has exhibited these signs, action needs to be taken. The Mental Health First Aid course provided by the Richmond Foundation provides guidance on what to do in such situations.
It can be very stressful when an employee displays warning signs of suicide. In addition to supporting your employee, don’t hesitate to get support for yourself. Reach out to your superiors or external supports. Richmond Foundation is available 24/7 on their helpline 1770 and online chat olli.chat.
