Strategies for suicide prevention in schools and in the workplace

O suicide has become an alarming concern in modern society, leading to tragic loss of life. Its causes are multifaceted and can be grouped into different categories, including neurobiology, personal and family history, stressful events, sociocultural environment and factors psychological. However, it is crucial to highlight that unbearable mental pain, stress and psychological conflicts emerge as the main drivers of suicidal tendencies.

To face the challenge of reducing the suicide rate in schools and workplaces, it is essential to understand the relevance of the psychological aspect, since it is the main cause. It is worth mentioning that the reasons or causes of suicide differ considerably between different age groups.

Some of the factors of suicide in schools:

• Bullying: Bullying is one of the main causes of suicide among students. The victim of bullying may face physical, verbal or emotional abuse, which can lead to a deep sense of hopelessness and isolation.
• Academic pressure: The pressure to achieve high academic results can be overwhelming for some students. Excessive competitiveness, fear of failure and work overload can lead to mental disorders such as anxiety and depression, which increase the risk of suicide.
• Social exclusion: Feeling socially excluded, whether due to cultural differences, physical appearance or lack of social skills, can lead to loneliness and despair, contributing to suicide in schools.
• Family problems: Family conflicts, physical or emotional abuse, neglect and other domestic issues can have a profound impact on students' mental health, increasing the risk of suicidal thoughts.

Some of the factors of suicide in the workplace:

• Occupational stress: Work-related stress, such as task overload, tight deadlines, and excessive demands, can have a negative effect on workers' mental health. Burnout, emotional exhaustion, and a sense of hopelessness can lead to suicide.
• Harassment and discrimination: Moral, sexual harassment or other forms of discrimination in the workplace can cause significant psychological harm. The feeling of powerlessness and lack of support can lead to suicidal thoughts.
• Job insecurity: Uncertainty regarding job stability, lack of growth prospects and fear of unemployment can generate an environment of anxiety and hopelessness, increasing the risk of suicide.
• Social isolation: Social isolation in the work environment, whether due to exclusion, lack of social interaction or relationships harmful interpersonal relationships, can lead to feelings of loneliness and hopelessness, risk factors for suicide.

It is important to emphasize that suicide is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon, and each case is unique. The above mentioned causes are just some of the main influences that can contribute to suicide in schools and at work.

Seek prevention measures that involve awareness, emotional support, access to health treatments mental health and creating safe and inclusive environments is critical both in schools and in the workplace. work.

doctor Chandni Tugnait, alternative medicine specialist, psychotherapist, life coach and founder of Gateway of Healing, shares behaviors to watch out for.

He emphasizes that we should be aware of warning signs, such as drastic mood swings, isolation social life, changes in sleeping and eating patterns, as well as persistent feelings of hopelessness and despair.

We will now address key strategies for preventing suicide in schools and workplaces, with the aim of ensuring a safe and healthy environment for students and professionals.

Suicide prevention in schools:

• Awareness and education: Promote mental health awareness campaigns, highlighting the warning signs of suicide and the importance of seeking help. Educating students, faculty, and staff about the importance of self-care and identifying signs of emotional distress is crucial.
• Early intervention: Establish school support teams composed of professionals trained in mental health. These teams can identify early warning signs and intervene appropriately, offering emotional support, treatment referrals, and ongoing follow-up.
• Safe environment: Create an inclusive, welcoming and bullying-free environment. Promote actions to combat bullying and discrimination, encouraging empathy, respect and mutual acceptance among students.
• Emotional Strengthening: Offer emotional education programs, teaching students coping skills and resilience. This includes training on stress management, conflict resolution, communication skills and self-esteem.

Suicide prevention in the workplace:

• Awareness and training: Provide regular training for employees and managers on mental health, identifying warning signs and how to provide adequate support. Foster a culture of openness where employees feel comfortable seeking help and talking about their emotional struggles.
• Prevention policies: Implement organizational policies that support employee mental health, including access to mental health services, sick leave, wellness programs and flexibility in work. Encourage balance between personal and professional life.
• Emotional support: Establish emotional support programs such as helplines, psychological counseling or workplace therapy. Make resources and information available about external mental health services.
• Stress reduction: Implement strategies to manage and reduce stress in the workplace, such as providing breaks regularly, promote a culture of mutual support, encourage physical activity, and create a work environment healthy.

Importantly, suicide prevention in schools and workplaces requires a comprehensive approach. multidisciplinary, involving health professionals, managers, educators, employees and the community in general.

This article does not provide solutions for medical or psychological problems. Consult a specialist before starting any treatment.

The Center for Valuing Life (CVV) promotes emotional support and suicide prevention, offering free consultations to anyone. The center guarantees total secrecy and answers by phone, email and chat 24 hours a day, seven days a week, by calling 188.