Here is a checklist for providing a calm, supportive, and safety-focused response when an employee shares suicidal thoughts.
1. Stay Calm and Acknowledge
☐ Thank them for telling you.
☐ Express care and concern.
Example: “I’m really glad you told me. I’m concerned about you and want to make sure you’re safe.”
2. Check Immediate Safety
☐ Ask directly if they are safe and where they are (home, work etc.)
☐ Ask if they are currently feeling unsafe or have thoughts of harming themselves.
Example: “Can I ask if you’re feeling unsafe or having thoughts of self-harm now. Can you share where you are?”
3. Listen Without Judging
☐ Allow them to talk.
☐ Avoid minimizing, fixing, or debating their feelings.
☐ Acknowledge their emotions. What may seem minor or irrational to you is very real and significant for them.
Example: “I can see that this is upsetting for you. I’m glad you felt comfortable sharing it with me.”
4. Connect Them to Support
☐ Encourage reaching out to a crisis resource (call or text 988).
☐ Offer to stay with them while they make the call. Three-way call if needed.
☐ Offer Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Laree Reidenbaugh: (405)323-2155
☐ DHS Volunteer Chaplain Services
Example: “Would it be helpful for you to connect with 988 or EAP? If you would like, I can stay on the line with you while you reach out to 988 or schedule a session with EAP.”
5. Ensure Immediate Safety
☐ If they are in immediate danger, contact emergency services-911.
**Create an easily accessible list of employees’ addresses and phone numbers.
6. Work Support
☐ Let them know their wellbeing comes first.
☐ Discuss stepping away from work or using leave if needed.
☐ Notify your leadership as appropriate.
7. Document and Follow Up
☐ Document the conversation: Note the date, time, what was shared, and actions taken. Keep it confidential. This does not go in HR OnBase or in any personnel file.
☐ Check in with the employee later. (Follow-Up Steps below)
Welfare Check for an Employee at Risk of Self-Harm (IF NEEDED)
☐ Call for a welfare check: Contact local law enforcement in the employee’s area and request a welfare check. Provide their name, location, and the nature of the concern.
☐ Share relevant information: Give only necessary details to help responders assess risk, avoid speculation.
☐Notify leadership: Inform appropriate supervisors to ensure coordinated support.
Always prioritize the employee’s immediate safety.
Follow-Up Steps:
1. Immediate Follow-Up (Same Day / Within 24 Hours)
☐ Confirm employee is safe.
☐ Ensure they have connected with professional support (988, Therapist, EAP).
Sample Check-In: “I wanted to check in after our conversation yesterday to see that you’re doing okay and that you were able to connect with support.”
2. Short-Term Follow-Up (Next Few Days)
☐ Informally check on emotional wellbeing.
☐ Remind them of resources if needed: EAP, crisis lines, counseling.
Sample Check-In: “How are you feeling this week? Is there anything I can do to support you?”
3. Mid-Term Follow-Up (1–2 Weeks)
☐ Assess engagement with mental health support.
☐ Encourage continued communication about triggers or needs.
Sample Check-In: “Checking in from last week. How are you doing, and is there anything I can do?”
Long-Term Plan (Ongoing Support)
☐ Schedule periodic check-ins (weekly or biweekly as needed/wanted).
☐ Establish a safety plan including contacts and crisis resources.
Example Safety Plan:
- Discuss a plan for immediate steps that will be taken if thoughts escalate.
- Who can they call, text or reach out to? What steps will they take?
- Remind them:
- To call or text 988
- Offer Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Laree Reidenbaugh: (405)323-2155
- DHS Volunteer Chaplain Services
Download an accessible version of this checklist.