It can feel overwhelming to know what to say — or how to say it — when someone may be struggling in the workplace. Yet, we need to have these meaningful conversations to provide support and resources and to bring hope to someone who may be struggling with thoughts of suicide. Just talking about suicide is one of the best ways to prevent it.

This guide was created by the Mental Health Commission of Canada in consultation with partners from various workplaces and experts in the field of workplace mental health and suicide prevention, as well as people with lived and living experience. Originally released in 2021, the guide was recently refreshed to reflect today’s realities and incorporate new and emerging resources and best practices, such as 9-8-8 and suicide postvention.

This revised guide is designed to help employers, managers, and employees foster a stronger culture of care, psychological safety, and support. Inside, you’ll find clear, practical tips, strategies, and resources for promoting mental health, responding to warning signs, and navigating conversations about suicide with confidence and compassion.

To get the most out of the updated content, be sure to explore the sections tailored to your role, whether you’re
• an employer shaping organizational policies
• a manager supporting your team
• a co worker looking to help a colleague
• a front-line worker engaging with customers or
• a worker who is struggling yourself.

The guide also includes a Crisis Conversation Guide, which offers a universal, step-by-step approach to having safe, supportive dialogues when someone may be at risk.