By: Dr. Rachel Mitchum Elahee
September marks Suicide Prevention Month, and we’re presented with an opportunity to reflect, engage, and take meaningful action. At Presidential Consultants, LLC, we believe that everyone has a role in creating a workplace that promotes mental health awareness, wellness, and support. The theme for this month is "Choose." Choose life, choose joy, choose action. But how do we translate these choices into actionable steps in our workplace?
I’m Dr. Rachel Mitchum Elahee, Senior Trainer & Executive Coach at Presidential Consultants. Over my 23 years of experience, I’ve had the privilege of working with countless individuals struggling with emotional wellness and chronic suicidal thoughts. As a psychologist, there have been many times when I wished I could wave a magic wand to take away someone’s pain or say the perfect words that would bring them back from the brink of despair. But that’s not how life works, and it’s certainly not how healing happens.
I remember one day, years ago, when I sat across from a young woman who was struggling deeply. She felt overwhelmed by the weight of her life, feeling hopeless and convinced that there was no way out. In that moment, I realized that I couldn’t fix her pain or magically take it away. But what I could do—and what I chose to do—was to sit with her, listen, and be fully present. We sat in silence for a while, and then I shared a simple truth: “You are not alone. I see you. I’m here, and we will walk through this together.”
That moment wasn’t about having all the answers or being a hero; it was about choosing to be there, to show empathy, and to offer support. It was about understanding that sometimes, the most powerful thing we can do is to acknowledge someone's pain and let them know that they are not alone.
This month, I want to challenge you to be that person for someone else. You don’t need to have a psychology degree to make a difference. Sometimes, your presence, your willingness to listen, and your choice to act with kindness can be the lifeline that someone desperately needs. Understanding the Issue
Depression and suicidal thoughts are often hidden struggles. They can affect anyone, regardless of age, race, gender, or job role. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, depression is the most common mental disorder, with 21 million adults in the U.S. experiencing at least one major depressive episode each year. Unfortunately, many people suffer in silence, especially in professional settings where vulnerability is often stigmatized.
As part of the helping professions, it's essential to recognize that our choices have a profound impact on our colleagues, teams, and communities. By becoming aware of the signs of depression and suicidal ideation, we empower ourselves to be proactive in providing support. This blog will guide you through the steps to create a culture of understanding, inclusion, and well-being at work. Click on the image or the link below to download our Workplace Mental Health Wellness Toolkit.
Why Suicide Prevention Matters in the Workplace
We spend a significant portion of our lives at work, and our professional environment can either contribute to our mental well-being or exacerbate feelings of isolation, stress, and despair. Suicide prevention isn’t just about recognizing the warning signs; it’s about fostering a culture that prioritizes mental health and well-being.
Key Risk Factors for Suicide:
Recent Loss or Trauma: Loss of a loved one, relationship breakup, job loss, or financial difficulties.
Social Isolation: Feeling disconnected from family, friends, or colleagues.
Chronic Medical Conditions: Dealing with chronic pain or health issues.
Access to Lethal Means: Easy access to firearms or medications.
Substance Abuse: Misuse of drugs or alcohol.
Understanding these risk factors allows us to identify colleagues who might be struggling and reach out to them in meaningful ways. How Can Your Choices Make a Difference?
1. Choose to Listen and Observe
Sometimes, the most powerful thing we can do is listen. If you notice a colleague withdrawing, missing deadlines, or exhibiting changes in behavior, take the time to reach out. Ask open-ended questions like, "How have you been feeling lately?" or "Is there anything you’d like to talk about?"
Empathy is key. Listening without judgment or criticism can be a lifeline for someone experiencing depression or suicidal thoughts. Remember, talking about suicide doesn’t "plant" the idea; instead, it opens the door for someone to feel seen and heard.
2. Choose to Be a Trauma Champion
In our workshops, we train employees to become "Trauma Champions," individuals who stand in the gap for colleagues exposed to trauma through education, advocacy, peer support, and guidance. You don't need to be a mental health expert to offer support. Sometimes, simply being present and showing that you care can make all the difference. Click on the image or the link below to download the Mental Health First Aid Action Plan.
Recognize the Signs of Depression and Suicide Ideation
Awareness is the first step in prevention. Look out for:
Emotional Signs: Overwhelming sadness, mood swings, feelings of worthlessness, or hopelessness.
Behavioral Signs: Self-harm, talking about wanting to die, giving away possessions, or isolating from others.
Physical Signs: Changes in sleep patterns, appetite, or physical appearance.
By staying vigilant and informed, you can be a lifeline to someone who feels they have nowhere else to turn. 3. Choose to Offer Support and Encouragement
Encouraging someone to seek professional help is crucial. Share resources such as the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (available 24/7 in the U.S.) or your company’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Providing information about support networks, counseling services, or helplines can help guide someone toward the assistance they need. Creating a Mental Health-Supportive Environment
To build a workplace that supports mental health, consider incorporating these values:
Empathy: Understand the unique challenges your colleagues face without judgment.
Concern: Show genuine interest in their well-being.
Uncritical Attitude: Be aware of your thoughts and biases, and approach others with a supportive mindset.
Click on the image or the link below to download the Strategies for Creating a Culture of Wellness.
Practical Steps for Suicide Prevention at Work
Encourage Open Conversations: Create a safe space for colleagues to share their struggles without fear of stigma or repercussions.
Provide Training: Invest in human services training and leadership development that includes mental health awareness and crisis management.
Establish Clear Policies: Ensure that workplace safety protocols address mental health emergencies, providing clear guidelines on how to support someone in crisis.
Promote Wellness and Inclusion: Encourage team-building activities, cultural competence training, and diversity and inclusion programs to foster a sense of belonging and support.
Your Choice Can Save a Life
In a world where work pressures can be overwhelming, choosing to act with compassion, empathy, and understanding can make a life-changing impact. Your choice to listen, support, and stand in the gap can help save a life. As we continue to navigate our roles as leaders, colleagues, and friends, let’s commit to choosing life, joy, action, and each other.
Let’s choose to make a difference, not just this month, but every day. Choose to be the person who reaches out, who listens, who offers hope. Choose to create a workplace where mental health is a priority, where everyone feels seen, valued, and supported. Because when we choose to stand in the gap for one another, we choose life, joy, and action in the most meaningful way possible.
Resources to Share
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (US): 988 or 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
Talk Suicide Canada: 1-833-456-4566 or text 45645 (4 PM - Midnight)
Employee Assistance Programs (EAP): Encourage employees to utilize these confidential services.
Dr. Rachel Mitchum Elahee is a licensed psychologist, certified executive coach and author of the book Choose You! Reignite Your Passion for Life. Based in Atlanta, Georgia, Dr. Rachel earned her Psy.D. from Wright State University in Dayton, Ohio and has received numerous awards as a psychologist and tremendous accolades as a speaker.
In addition to her public speaking, Dr. Rachel has been featured on Good Day Atlanta, CBS radio, NPR Boston, PBS NewsHour and in publications such as the U.S. News & World Report and MadameNoire.com
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