Take Action
Act immediately if you notice any warning signs. If you feel out of your depth, consider asking the person if you can contact someone on their behalf who could help (e.g., family members, EAP, peer or manager support, help lines, friends, etc.). We are not trained to decide if someone is serious or not, if expressing that they are in distress. Take their word; it is not for you to decide.
How to help a person that you think may be in crisis:
🍂 🍂 Listen and express your concerns. 🍂 🍂 Talk to them and reassure them that they are not alone. 🍂 🍂 Explain that you are concerned about their well-being. 🍂 🍂 Ask them if they are having thoughts of self-harm or suicide (according to your comfort level). 🍂 🍂 Ask if they have a plan to end their life (according to your comfort level). 🍂 🍂 Refer them to a crisis line or help the person to call a crisis line. 🍂 🍂 Help them put together a plan for safety. 🍂 🍂 If the person refuses to get help after several tries, you could inform them that you are concerned and care for their safety and well-being and that you need to talk to someone who can help. 🍂 🍂 If you are on the phone, assisting virtually, unable to be physically present or stay with them until they are in a safe environment, have an alternative plan in place so they are not left alone during this difficult time.
Manager’s Guide and Tools on suicide and distress in the Workplace
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