NESC Partners with Healthier Workforce Center to Combat Holiday Depression
The Nebraska Safety Council (NESC) (nesafetycouncil.org), in partnership with the Healthier Workforce Center of the Midwest, wants to remind everyone to take a few minutes each day to check in on your peers at work. The holidays bring excitement and joy for many of us, but others may experience the complete opposite, bringing feelings of loneliness and sadness. A simple two-minute conversation can be a helpful way to gage how that person is doing day-to-day. Be aware of possible warning signs of depression and/or suicide and take action in addressing any mental health concerns in a gentle, non-judgmental way. You could be the reason a coworker, friend, or family member makes a life-altering decision. The suicide prevention hotline can be reached by phone at (800) 273-8255 or text “Hello” to 741741.
- Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the United States.
- Some industries (construction, agriculture, and transportation) have higher rates than others. Be aware of warning signs such as comments of hopelessness, disinterest, reckless behavior, sadness, and more and speak up.
- When someone is at risk, it’s important to start a conversation. Ask directly about the issue, listen to them, use non-judgmental language, and create a safety plan together. Don’t be afraid to seek outside help from a suicide hotline or supervisor.
NESC will also be offering a training for Addressing Emotional Wellbeing in the Workplace on December 10. This training is available to members for $99 and non-members for $142. After completion of this course, you will walk away with knowledge on how to support your employees in regard to creating policies, providing resources, cultural environment changes, and physical environment changes. During this four-hour training you will have a chance to discuss what steps you can take to begin addressing emotional wellbeing in your workplace with guidance and input from their trainer and class participants. To register for this course or stay up to date on upcoming trainings, visit nesafetycouncil.org – Worker Education & Events – Training Courses. To register by phone, call (402) 483-2511 ext. 115.
The Mission of the Nebraska Safety Council is to provide education and leadership to empower Nebraskans to live safe and healthy. They offer comprehensive programs, training courses, events, and services that are designed to improve employee care at a desk, on the production floor, behind the wheel, and on the job. To learn more or to sign up for a membership today, visit nesafetycouncil.org, call (402) 483-2511, or email nesc@nesafetycouncil.org.