As we observe Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, it’s important to recognize the signs of distress in those around us and be prepared to step in when necessary. In 2023, over, 50,000 Americans lost their lives to suicide, making it more critical than ever to understand how we can help those at risk.

People struggling with suicidal thoughts often face overwhelming personal challenges, leading them to believe that suicide is their only option. Risk factors include the use of alcohol or opioids, which can significantly increase the likelihood of suicide. Key warning signs include social withdrawal, talking about death, noticeable personality changes, and a loss of interest in activities.

If you notice these signs in someone, listen without judgment, and take their words seriously. If you believe there is an immediate risk, contact emergency services or the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. For more resources and support, visit MagellanHealthcare.com or call your confidential Employee Assistance Program hotline, available 24/7 at 1-800-234-1327.

Available Resources and Training: Supporting Your Wellbeing

As we continue through September, the focus is still on critical issues like substance misuse and performance coaching. Here’s what you can expect:

Substance Misuse: Continuing the Conversation

Substance misuse has been a major focus this month, highlighting that it affects people from all walks of life. If you or someone you know is grappling with alcohol or drug use, recognizing the problem, and seeking recovery remains crucial. This month’s campaign offered valuable insights into alcohol use and coping strategies, and the resources continue to be available for those in need.

• Date: September 11^th (Recording Available)
• Overview: If you missed the live event, you can still access the recording to learn about low-risk and high-risk alcohol use, explore healthy coping strategies, and understand when it’s time to seek help.

Performance Coaching for Managers: Tools Still Accessible

Managers and supervisors have the opportunity to delve into performance coaching as a means to foster motivation and productivity among their teams. This focus on leadership continues to be relevant for those seeking to improve workplace engagement.

• Live Webinar: Coaching Employees to Improve Performance and Engagement
  • Date: September 25^th
  • Time: 1:00 p.m. CT
  • Register Here
  • Overview: There’s still time to join this upcoming session, where you’ll discover effective coaching techniques to elevate employee performance and learn how to create coaching opportunities that drive workplace engagement.

Financial Wellbeing: Upcoming Sessions

Though the month is winding down, a couple of financial well-being webinars are still on the horizon, providing valuable guidance for your future planning.

• Employee Benefits: Smart Choices, Brighter Future
  • Date: September 26^th
  • Time: 11:00 a.m. CT | 2:00 p.m. CT
  • Overview: This upcoming webinar will explore how to maximize your employee benefits, including tax-advantaged accounts and matching contributions, to secure a brighter financial future.

For more details on these resources and additional support, you can still visit MagellanAscend.com or contact Gwendolyn Ford at 405-954-3039 with any questions.