Workplace safety includes mental health

Each September, Suicide Prevention Awareness Month reminds us of the critical importance of mental health in every aspect of life - including the workplace. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration joins Deputy Secretary of Labor Keith Sonderling in raising awareness to help reduce the stigma around conversations of mental health at work, and supporting employers, workers, and their families, by highlighting resources that may help save lives.

Suicide is a leading cause of death among working-age adults in the United States, with the construction industry having one of the highest suicide rates of any occupation. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in 2022, more than 5,000 construction workers died by suicide, compared to 1,000 construction workers who lost their lives that year from a work-related injury.

Mental wellness is as important as physical health in all industries, and it's important to know the best ways to offer help. Starting conversations and listening to your coworkers are important first steps in supporting someone who may need help, but unable to ask for it. Breaking the silence by encouraging open discussions around mental health in the workplace can normalize the subject and make it easier for workers to speak about their own issues without embarrassment.

Best practices for employers may include:

• Expressing a commitment to prioritizing employee mental health and well-being.
• Asking about workplace stressors and discussing what support or services are available and may be of help.
• Encouraging employees to share concerns and ideas with management without fear of retaliation.
• Encouraging employees to connect and support one another by providing opportunities to interact.

While someone may be struggling with issues in their home life, traumatic events that can happen at work - such as experiencing an injury or witnessing a fatality - may also have a devasting impact on a person's mental well-being.

There is no single cause for suicide but there are warning signs. These can include, among others: being anxious, agitated, or behaving recklessly; increasing the use of alcohol or drugs; talking about feeling hopeless or being a burden to others; displaying extreme mood swings; and sleeping too much or too little.

It is important to take these signs seriously. If you are concerned about a coworker, talk with them. Encourage them to reach out to your human resources department or a mental health professional. If you believe a coworker is at immediate risk of suicide, stay with them until you can get further help. Contact emergency services or the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

Awareness, compassion, and connection may serve as a source of support for those who may be struggling with depression or suicidal thoughts. Listening to someone share their struggles and showing empathy without judgment can make a difference that could save someone's life.

Find more resources and materials on supporting workplace mental health and wellness.

Amanda Wood Laihow is the Acting Assistant Secretary of Labor in the U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration.