Suicide in the Workplace

“The issue of employee mental health is one of the defining issues of our times. This authoritative research text by Dr. Germain and her colleagues lifts the lid on an uncomfortable and unspoken reality – suicide in the workplace. It offers a range of practical support for HR practitioners, organisational leaders and policy makers. An informative, challenging and insightful must-read text.”

Prof. David McGuire, Head of HRM Department, Edinburgh Napier University, Scotland

"A timely and important investigation of a critical issue among a modern workforce. This book sheds light on a rising threat in modern work, providing practical advice for employers, employees, and mental health professionals on how to identify and address signs of suicide ideation and promote a healthier work environment. A must-read for anyone committed to well-being in the workplace."

Annie M. Wilson, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Department of Psychology, Western Carolina University

The pandemic has heightened the focus on mental health, pushing organizations to prioritize employee support. While workplace mental health research is growing, micro-level studies on negative work environments remain limited. This three-book series examines personality disorders, work-related suicides, and their impact on employees and leaders.

This volume explores occupational suicide, its characteristics, and the circumstances associated with workplace suicide in various occupations. The book is divided into three sections: defining work-related suicide, exploring its connection to high-stress roles (like law enforcement), and the role of leadership and human resources professionals in suicide prevention and postvention. Featuring contributions from global authors, the collection provides an international perspective on the sociocultural factors influencing work-related suicides. This book will advance scholarship related to employee well-being and mental health, employee engagement, organizational culture and psychology.

Marie-Line Germain, Ph.D. is an award-winning Professor of Human Resources and Leadership at Western Carolina University, USA. She is the author of six books and has been a Fulbright recipient with visiting professorships in China, Finland, France, Ghana, Japan, and South Korea. Her research focuses on dysfunctional leadership behaviors and psychosocial risks in the workplace.