Training Event Provides Tools for Recognizing When Someone Needs Help

In brief:

• In recognition of Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, the Exchange Office of Inspector General coordinated a joint virtual training event with suicide prevention coordinator from VA North Texas Health Care System.
• Training focused on suicide prevention awareness, recognizing possible warning signs and employing appropriate response techniques.
• Key takeaways included listening without judgment, showing empathy, recognizing when someone may need immediate support and more.

In recognition of Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, the Exchange Office of Inspector General recently initiated and coordinated a joint virtual training event with Mental Health Service And Suicide Prevention Coordinator Tyler Cheney from the Veterans Affairs North Texas Health Care System.

The training brought together representatives from the IG Hotline, Equal Employment Opportunity, Loss Prevention and the Exchange Credit Program to strengthen awareness, preparedness and support across the Exchange community.

Each of these offices serves associates, customers, complainants and other members of the Exchange community who may be facing difficult circumstances. On occasion, members may speak with customers or associates who are overwhelmed by personal, workplace, financial or other challenges. Although these teams are not mental-health professionals, they may be among the first people to recognize when a customer or associate is overwhelmed, emotionally distressed or in need of immediate support.

The VA-led training focused on suicide prevention awareness, recognizing possible warning signs and employing appropriate response techniques. The training provided practical tools to help associates respond respectfully and calmly when interacting with customers or callers who may be experiencing a crisis. Key takeaways included listening without judgment, showing empathy, recognizing when someone may need immediate support and helping connect that individual with qualified resources.

This joint effort reflects the Exchange’s commitment to mental health awareness and suicide prevention. Through collaboration, training and resource support, Exchange teams are better prepared to serve associates and customers.

While the training reinforces the ability of key Exchange teams to respond when individuals may be experiencing emotional distress, Human Resources continues to promote resources that support the mental health and well-being of associates and their families.

The Exchange recognizes that mental health is an essential component of overall well-being, and associates do not have to face personal, family, financial, workplace or emotional challenges alone. Through the Employee Assistance Program (EAP), administered by Magellan, associates and their eligible family members have access to confidential, professional support at no cost, including resources for managing stress, anxiety, depression, grief, relationship concerns, work-life balance challenges and other personal matters.

During Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, associates are encouraged to check in with one another and foster a culture of connection and belonging. Sometimes a simple conversation, text message or expression of concern can remind someone they are valued and supported. Small acts of kindness and genuine outreach can make a meaningful difference in the life of a coworker, friend or family member.

Associates can access EAP services by calling 800-424-5988 or visiting the Mind Your Mental Health resource page (Mind Your Mental Health | Magellan Healthcare). For individuals experiencing an immediate emotional crisis can call or text 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, 24 hours a day.

By promoting awareness, encouraging meaningful connections, and providing access to professional support resources, the Exchange remains committed to fostering a workplace where associates feel supported, valued and empowered to seek help when needed.