Strategies for Organizational Leaders and Human Resource Professionals in Workplace Suicide Prevention and Postvention

Jodi J. Frey (), Sally Spencer-Thomas and Maggie G. Mortali
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Jodi J. Frey: University of Maryland
Sally Spencer-Thomas: United Suicide Survivors International
Maggie G. Mortali: Independent Contractors

Chapter Chapter 10 in Suicide in the Workplace, 2025, pp 177-204 from Springer

Abstract: Abstract Workplace suicide prevention and postvention are essential elements of organizational health and safety. This chapter offers evidence-informed strategies for organizational leaders and human resource professionals to reduce suicide risk and enhance mental well-being within their organizations. The authors advocate for a comprehensive approach to suicide prevention encompassing upstream, midstream, and downstream strategies. Upstream strategies include leadership engagement, fostering a culture of psychological safety, and addressing workplace psychosocial hazards. Midstream approaches involve the implementation of screening programs, training, and peer support networks to identify and assist at-risk employees. Downstream interventions focus on maintaining robust crisis response systems, such as high-quality Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), and implementing lethal means safety policies and procedures within the workplace. Downstream approaches are highlighted as a critical component of suicide prevention, offering guidance on how to support employees after a suicide, reduce risk of contagion, and facilitate organizational recovery. By integrating these strategies, organizations can cultivate supportive work environments that prioritize mental health, reduce stigma, and prevent suicide.

Keywords: Workplace; Suicide; Prevention; Postvention; Human resources; Leadership; Upstream interventions; Midstream interventions; Downstream interventions; Change; Storytelling (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:spr:sprchp:978-3-031-85442-2_10

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DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-85442-2_10

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