Suicide Prevention: What to Look for and How to Help

If you or someone you know is in crisis or having thoughts of self-harm, please reach out for immediate support. Call 9-1-1 for emergency services, contact 9-8-8 (Suicide Crisis Helpline), or text a crisis service right away. You don't have to face this alone. 

The impact of suicide reaches far beyond the individual—it deeply affects colleagues, coworkers, family, and friends. With 70% of deaths by suicide occurring among working-age adults between 30 and 64 years old, the effects of these tragic losses extend into the workplace, leaving lasting emotional and professional ripples. 

This article will help you understand the warning signs of suicide in others and yourself, as well as what you can do to support someone who is struggling. 

Occupation and Suicide Risk: The Impact on Public Safety Personnel 

Public safety professionals face unique challenges that can significantly impact mental health, increasing their risk of suicide. Here are the primary factors contributing to this heightened risk: 

• Exposure to Trauma: Regular encounters with distressing events, violence, and human suffering contribute to cumulative stress, PTSD, and burnout. 

• Workplace Culture: Many public safety professionals work in environments where discussing mental health is stigmatized, making it harder to seek help. 

• High-Stress, High-Stakes Decisions: The responsibility of making life-or-death decisions increases anxiety, self-doubt, and emotional exhaustion. 

• Shift Work and Sleep Disruptions: Irregular hours, long shifts, and sleep deprivation create emotional instability and burnout. 

• Job Insecurity and Organizational Stress: Changes in policies, workload demands, and institutional challenges can add to an already overwhelming burden. 

By understanding these risks, public safety professionals can better recognize when they or their colleagues may be struggling and seek early intervention. 

Risk Factors: What Contributes to Suicide? 

Suicide is rarely caused by a single factor; it’s often the result of a combination of personal, work-related, and mental health challenges. Here are some key risk factors: 

• Mental Health Conditions: Depression is involved in 60% of suicide deaths, and 90% of those who die by suicide have a diagnosed or undiagnosed mental health disorder. 

• Access to Lethal Means: Having access to firearms or other lethal methods can increase the risk of impulsive actions. 

• Previous Suicide Attempts: A history of attempts can increase the likelihood of future suicide. 

• Sense of Hopelessness: The ability to see hope for the future plays a key role in resilience and mental health recovery. 

• Lack of Coping Skills and Self-Care: Healthy habits like sleep, nutrition, and seeking professional support can help mitigate risks. 

• Substance Use: Misuse of alcohol or drugs lowers inhibitions and increases impulsivity. 

• Chronic Pain: Physical or emotional pain can erode an individual’s ability to cope. 

By recognizing these risk factors, you can help intervene early and encourage those struggling to seek professional help. 

Recognizing the Signs of Suicide 

Recognizing suicidal ideation is essential for early intervention. While warning signs aren’t always obvious, certain behaviours and emotional cues indicate someone may be in distress: 

• Changes in Behaviour: Sudden withdrawal from social interactions or work activities. 

• Extreme Mood Swings: Sudden shifts from sadness to calm, irritability, or aggression. 

• Increased Substance Use: Using alcohol or other substances as a coping mechanism. 

• Emotional Numbness: Disconnection from emotions or surroundings. 

• Talk of Being a Burden: Expressions like “Everyone would be better off without me” or feelings of hopelessness. 

• Giving Away Belongings: Preparing for the worst by giving away personal items. 

• Mentions of Suicide: Phrases such as “I don’t see a way out” or “I can’t do this anymore.” 

• Work Changes: Decreased productivity, increased absences, or conflicts with coworkers. 

• Planning or Researching Suicide: Searching for methods, gathering means, or discussing specific plans. 

For public safety personnel, it’s important to recognize these signs not just in yourself, but in colleagues who may be struggling behind the scenes. Mental health struggles in this field are often hidden, so the more aware you are, the better equipped you’ll be to intervene before things get worse. 

What to Do if Someone Is in Danger

If you suspect someone may be struggling with suicidal ideation, taking swift action is critical. Here’s what you can do: 

• Start a Conversation: Approach them with empathy and concern. A simple “I’ve noticed some changes, and I’m worried about you—do you want to talk about it?” can open the door. 

• Listen Without Judgment: Allow them to express their feelings without attempting to “fix” everything. Acknowledge their pain. 

• Ask Directly: If you’re concerned, it’s okay to ask, “Are you thinking about suicide?” This question does not increase the risk but helps them feel seen and understood. 

• Encourage Professional Help: Suggest reaching out to a therapist, crisis hotline, or support group, and offer to help find resources if needed. 

• Stay Connected: Checking in regularly, even with a brief text, shows that you care and that they are not alone. 

• Call for Help: If they have a plan and immediate means to harm themselves, don’t leave them alone. Contact emergency services or a crisis intervention team immediately. 

Supporting Someone Through Suicidal Ideation 

When someone you care about is experiencing suicidal ideation, your support can be a lifeline. 

• Be present – Sometimes, just sitting with someone and letting them know they are not alone can be enough. 

• Avoid dismissive statements – Phrases like “You have so much to live for” or “Others have it worse” can feel invalidating. 

• Encourage small steps – Suggest reaching out to a trusted person, going for a walk, or engaging in a calming activity. 

• Take care of yourself too – Supporting someone in crisis can be emotionally draining. Lean on your own support system and seek guidance if needed. 

If you or someone you know is feeling overwhelmed or having thoughts of self-harm, it’s important to talk about it. Don’t hesitate to reach out to a friend, family member, your primary healthcare provider, or a mental health professional who can provide support. Remember, asking for help shows strength, not weakness. It’s okay to seek assistance when times are tough—you're not alone.   

References

1. Cannady, C. (2024). “Suicidology Among First Responders: A Literature Review of Causal and Protective Factors.” Cummings Graduate Institute. Accessed 31 March 2025.

2. Government of Canada. (n.d.). “Preventing suicide: When and how to help.” Accessed 31 March 2025.

3. NIHM. (n.d.). “Warning Signs of Suicide.” Accessed 31 March 2025.