Part 2: Work-Related Suicide: Health and Safety Regulators’ Perspectives

Welcome to Part 2 of the IASP Suicide and the Workplace Special Interest Group Episode. Hosts Jorgen Gullestrup and Dr. Sally Spencer Thomas continue their deep dive into workplace mental health and suicide prevention with Tim Irving from OSHA and Dr. John Fitzgerald from WorkSafe New Zealand. The episode uncovers critical insights into how occupational safety and health administrations are evolving to address mental health and psychosocial risks more comprehensively. Tim Irving shares OSHA's recent initiatives, which include embedding mental health information in mandatory training and a renewed commitment to suicide prevention, particularly in high-risk sectors like construction. Dr. John Fitzgerald adds an international perspective, discussing the importance of managing psychosocial risks and the pivotal role regulators play in suicide prevention by leveraging the three levers: engage, educate, and enforce.The guests discuss the significance of small conversations, frequent check-ins, and cross-sector partnerships in engendering a culture of mental well-being. Dr. Fitzgerald emphasizes the need to broaden our understanding of mental health and proactively involve various societal sectors, including justice agencies and media, in framing workplace safety. Jorgen Gullestrup brings the conversation full circle by highlighting the importance of a holistic, all-of-government, and all-of-community approach to mental health and suicide prevention. The episode encapsulates a shared optimism and relentless drive towards creating psychologically safe workplaces worldwide, emphasizing the progressive steps already being taken and the collective effort required for sustained impact. For more information on this epidose go to https://www.sallyspencerthomas.com/headspace/ep45/part-2-work-related-suicide-health-and-safety-regulators-perspectives