Workplace suicide prevention: a systematic review of published and unpublished activities

Abstract

There are a number of published studies on workplace suicide prevention activities, and an even larger number of activities that are not reported on in academic literature. The aim of this review was to provide a systematic assessment of workplace suicide prevention activities, including short-term training activities, as well as suicide prevention strategies designed for occupational groups at risk of suicide. The search was based on Meta-analysis of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (MOOSE) Guidelines. The databases used for the searches were the Cochrane Trials Library and PubMed. A range of suicide prevention websites were also searched to ascertain the information on unpublished workplace suicide prevention activities. Key characteristics of retrieved studies were extracted and explained, including whether activities were short-term training programmes or developed specifically for occupations at risk of suicide. There were 13 interventions relevant for the review after exclusions. There were a few examples of prevention activities developed for at-risk occupations (e.g. police, army, air force and the construction industry) as well as a number of general awareness programmes that could be applied across different settings. Very few workplace suicide prevention initiatives had been evaluated. Results from those that had been evaluated suggest that prevention initiatives had beneficial effects. Suicide prevention has the potential to be integrated into existing workplace mental health activities. There is a need for further studies to develop, implement and evaluate workplace suicide prevention programmes.

Suicide Rates by Major Occupational Group — 17 States, 2012 and 2015

“…Because many adults spend a substantial amount of their time at work, the workplace is an important but underutilized location for suicide prevention ( 8 ). Workplaces could potentially benefit from suicide prevention activities.…”

“…gatekeepers) to identify those at risk for suicide and refer them to supporting services. However, more research on the role of the workplace in primary suicide prevention is needed, including improving working conditions and reducing stress ( 8 ). …”

Socio-Economic Position and Suicidal Ideation in Men

“…These might include urban regeneration or economic renewal programs (e.g., in areas where there have been widespread downturns in male-dominated industries like construction, car manufacturing or mining). They might also include efforts to improve the conditions in which men in these industries are working [39]. …”

Evaluation of the SCARF Well‐Being and Suicide Prevention Program for Rural Australian Communities

“…Research on suicidal behavior among rural and farming communities in Australia and internationally indicates the need for culturally appropriate, contextually sensitive, and tailored suicide prevention initiatives . Within Australia few rural suicide prevention programs have been delivered and evaluated …”