Start workplace suicide prevention conversation with: “Are You OK?”

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Approximately 80 percent of all people who die by suicide are of working age, making the workplace the most cross-cutting system for suicide prevention, intervention and crisis response; and, more and more workplaces understand that they have a part to play in helping to address this issue.

This is why the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services has created the “Are You OK?” initiative, a resource to support suicide prevention in the workplace. Links to a free digital training tool and other assets are available at www.oklahoma.gov/odmhsas/are-you-ok.html.

The digital training features Oklahoma small business, state and community leaders, suicide survivors and prevention professionals sharing knowledge and offering support.

Across the United States, workplaces are taking a closer look at mental health promotion and suicide prevention, shifting their role and perspective on suicide from ‘not our business’, to a mindset that says ‘we can do better’. ODMHSAS aims to ensure Oklahoma is a leader in this movement and has created resources to benefit workplaces statewide that address suicide prevention and engage with straightforward strategies that will save lives and alleviate suffering.

“We hope this ground-breaking effort helps provide the inspiration and the roadmap to move workplaces and the organizations that support them from inactive bystanders to bold leaders,” said Commissioner Carrie Slatton-Hodges. “Addressing behavioral health in the workplace supports our state’s economic well-being in addition to bettering the health and wellness of all Oklahomans.”

“ARE YOU OK?” is a simple question that can make a big difference in the lives of family, friends and coworkers. The initiative’s goal is to improve workplace culture by reducing the stigma and fears around suicide and mental health issues, and to help build a comprehensive and sustained suicide prevention program.

The department has expanded suicide prevention outreach efforts over the past several years, and has made progress in reducing the state’s suicide death rate. Still, far too many Oklahomans are impacted by thoughts of suicide, and too many families have been impacted by the loss of a loved-one. The added stressors of the pandemic have raised concerns, as calls to crisis and support lines have increased over the past year.

The department wants to remind all Oklahomans experiencing thoughts of harm or in crisis to call the suicide prevention lifeline at 800-273-8255 for immediate access to a caring professional who will listen and help. For others, a call to 211 from anywhere in the state can link Oklahomans to other services and supports, including referral to area behavioral health providers. Services are available regardless of a person’s ability to pay.

Organizations and businesses wishing to learn more about “Are You OK? and make suicide prevention a health and safety priority at work by taking the “Are You OK?” pledge, can do so by visiting www.oklahoma.gov/ odmhsas/are-you-ok.html today. Additional information about training, free resources and access to statewide treatment services is available at www. ODMHSAS.org.