How to Speak up about Suicide on the Job

According to the National Study of Police Suicides, 143 officers took their own lives in 2009. In 2012, that number dropped to 126, and in 2016, 108 law enforcement officers died by suicide. The study found that, in 2016:

· The average age of suicide was 42, with those between the ages of 40 and 44 at highest risk.

· About 91 percent of suicides were committed by men.

· The average number of years on the job at the time of death was 17, with most officers having 15–19 years invested in the police department.

· It is likely that the actual number of police officer suicide deaths is far higher, as there is no official reporting agency. Researchers monitored social media, news sources, and other outlets to find their data.

Though many hoped for a continuing downward trend in the number of police lives lost to suicide, more than 140 law enforcement officers ended their own lives in 2017, according to Badge of Life. These numbers drive home the fact that the problem is not to be ignored. The best way to address head on? Talk about it, out loud and often, in the department and with people who may be living in silent crisis.

Start the Conversation

There are a number of ways to continually put the risk of suicide as well as the signs in front of the people who need that information the most. These include:

· Workshops for officers: These can be tailored to meet the needs of the department and address any recent traumas as well.

· Information for families: Family members may see the signs of suicide long before anyone in the department is aware that there is anything wrong. Making sure that loved ones not only know what signs to look for but also how best to respond is critical.

· Confidential support and treatment: Identification of people in need of help is nothing without access to therapeutic intervention that is completely confidential. If someone is concerned that their personal information will be leaked, they will likely never reach out for help.

· Access to outside treatment professionals: Though department psychologists can be helpful to a point, it may be necessary to have someone outside of the department on board to ensure anonymity.

You Could Save a Life

Just by speaking up, checking in with someone at work who appears to be struggling, and sharing the options available for treatment, you could save the life of a coworker considering suicide. High-risk choices like drug and alcohol use, drinking on the job, or showing up to work still under the influence are all signs that your coworker could benefit from the First Responder Lifeline Program at American Addiction Centers.

Our unique program offers:

· A treatment team that is trained to work with first responders

· PTSD assessment and evaluation

· Treatment plans that are focused on the unique needs of first responders

· Therapies and treatments chosen to create a holistic treatment experience

· Family therapy and support

· Long-term aftercare and support through alumni groups and referrals

Learn how you can connect someone in crisis with the healing support and treatment provided here at American Addiction Centers. Call (866) 53-SOBER now.