Suicide Prevention: How Our Industry Can Step Up

This Suicide Prevention Month, we want to encourage conversations around mental health and remind those working across the electrical and energy industries that help is always within reach.

Despite growing awareness around mental wellbeing, our industry continues to struggle with higher than average suicide rates. Too often, our people suffer in silence rather than speaking openly about their mental health challenges.

Here are the facts:

  • 1 in 4 people have suicidal thoughts
  • 1 in 13 people attempt suicide
  • In 2020, workers in construction were at some of the highest risk of suicide in the country, at 3.7 times higher than the national average
  • Suicide is the single leading cause of death for men under 50 in the UK.
  • Men are 3x more likely to die by suicide in England than women.
  • 16 per cent of men have listed ‘fear of being put on medication’ in the top three reasons likely to deter them from seeking help
  • Men are less likely to access psychological therapies than women: only 36% of referrals to NHS talking therapies are for men
  • 54% of men say that there had been a time in the last 3 years where they have not sought medical help for a health concern
  • 40% of men have never spoken to anyone about their mental health
  • While women are more likely to have suicidal thoughts and make suicide attempts than men, men are three times more likely to die by suicide.

These statistics demonstrate why continued awareness, education and support are essential. At the Electrical Industries Charity, we believe that together we can create a world where it’s okay to talk about how we feel, seek support and look after our mental wellbeing without fear of judgement.

Suicide Prevention in the Workplace

Workplaces are key environments for suicide prevention, as they often provide a sense of community, routine, and support. We want to encourage employers and managers to consider the following actions as part of an effective suicide prevention strategy:

Establish Clear Mental Health Policies

Create a comprehensive mental health policy that includes suicide prevention measures. This should include clear guidance on how to recognise warning signs, what to do if an employee expresses suicidal thoughts, and how to connect employees with appropriate resources.

Train Employees and Managers

Provide mental health training for all employees, especially managers and HR staff. Training should focus on how to spot the warning signs of suicidal thoughts and how to respond appropriately. Ensure employees know how to approach someone in distress and the importance of referring them to professional help.

Offer Mental Health Resources

Ensure that employees have easy access to mental health resources, such as Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs), counselling services, or crisis helplines. Make these resources visible and easily accessible and encourage staff to seek help when needed.

Foster a Supportive Work Environment

Cultivate a work culture that promotes openness, respect, and mental wellbeing. Encourage regular conversations around mental health, reducing the stigma often associated with seeking help. Supportive teams and leadership can play a significant role in preventing suicide by providing individuals with the assurance that their struggles will be taken seriously.

Implement Confidentiality and Crisis Management Procedures

Ensure that any disclosures of suicidal thoughts are handled with confidentiality and compassion. Implement a clear procedure for responding to suicide threats, involving professionals who can assess risk and provide immediate support. Having a structured plan in place ensures that employees receive the help they need quickly and discreetly.

By creating a workplace environment that values mental health and offers resources for support, employers can play an active role in preventing suicide and promoting overall employee wellbeing.

Our Responsibility as an Industry

Suicide Prevention Month is a reminder that everyone has a role to play. Whether it’s checking in with a colleague, starting a conversation about mental health, or encouraging someone to seek support, small actions can make a significant difference.

The Electrical Industries Charity is always here to support the wellbeing of people across our industry. No one ever has to face their challenges alone.