Leadership

The Darkest Side to Workplace and Economic Stress: Suicide

By CC Holland

Updated on: September 8, 2009 / 12:33 PM EDT / MoneyWatch

It's been a tough year or two for most of us, what with the economy imploding, jobs getting slashed, and home values plummeting. But for a few, it's proven too much too handle.

According to The New York Times, workplace suicides rose significantly from 2007 to 2008, to a series high of 251 nationwide.

The Times reported that:

94 percent were committed by men
the suicide rate was highest for workers ages 45 to 54
white workers were most likely to commit suicide (78 percent)
employees in management positions accounted for the largest group of suicides

And keep in mind these numbers don't include suicides that were committed outside the workplace.

What can managers do to make sure one of their team members is not in trouble? Educate your employees on the risk signs of suicide, says Workforce Management, and create a workplace culture that lets workers feel comfortable seeking help from the company's Employee Assistance Program or other resources.

As a manager, cultivate an open-door policy and encourage your employees to let you know if they're having difficulties.

Recognize, and be prepared to respond to, the warning signs of suicide. According to the Suicide Prevention Resource Center (SPRC), these may include:

Talking about suicide or death
Making statements like "I wish I were dead." and "I'm going to end it all."
Less direct verbal cues, including "What's the point of living?" "Soon you won't have to worry about me" and "Who cares if I'm dead, anyway?"
Uncharacteristically isolating themselves from others in the workplace
Expressing feelings that life is meaningless or hopeless
Giving away cherished possessions
A sudden and unexplained improvement in mood after being depressed or withdrawn
Neglect of appearance and hygiene
Sudden unexplained deterioration of work performance or productivity

It's okay to approach an employee directly and ask, "Do you feel like you want to die?", says the SPRC. Be ready to offer EAP assistance or help your employee find outside counseling. If you feel that the person is in immediate danger, don't hesitate to call 911.

For more information and resources:

Download the SPRC's handbook on what employers can do to prevent suicide
Call (or direct your employee to call) the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).
Read ValueOptions' guidelines for creating a comprehensive suicide prevention plan for the workplace