7.3
Navigating a Crisis

If you observe that your colleague is experiencing a crisis, including signs of suicidality, you may need to take a slightly different approach. In addition to offering the support outlined above, your goals will be to assess the urgency of the situation and keep your colleague safe. 

Unless the person has already told you, the only way you can assess the urgency of the situation is to directly ask if they are thinking about harming themselves or others. Contrary to popular belief, talking about suicide does not make someone more suicidal. Asking someone if they have been thinking about harming themselves or others can open the conversation and help them share their feelings. While you may feel distressed about the information your colleague is sharing with you, it will be the most reassuring if you appear calm and confident.

If you think there is an immediate risk of the person acting on their thoughts, ensure they are not left alone and work to keep them safe by removing any means they have to harm themselves. If the person refuses to remove a weapon or to seek help, depending on the situation you may need to call 911, a crisis centre or encourage and/or assist the person to go to their nearest emergency department.

The Mental Health Commission of Canada and Centre for Suicide Prevention offer in-depth mental health first aid training to help individuals and workplaces navigate these type of discussions. 

Last modified: Monday, 29 September 2025, 9:10 AM