Correctional work: Reflections regarding suicide.

: The Public Health Agency of Canada declared suicide a public health problem in Canada
(2016). Employees working in correctional services, researchers find, experience high rates of lifetime suicidal ideation in comparison to other public safety professionals and the general population.
Suicide behaviours (i.e., ideation, planning, attempts, death) are a multifactorial phenomenon,
explained in part by the Interpersonal-Psychological Theory of Suicide that suggests attempted
suicide is facilitated by perceived burdensomeness, a lost sense of belonging, a feeling of hopelessness,
and a progressively reduced fear of death, as well as capacity and planning to engage a lethal attempt.
In the current study, we unpack the factors that can influence suicide behaviours as reported by
correctional workers. Our intent is to make explicit the experiences of a small sample (n = 25)
of correctional workers in relation to suicidal behaviours, highlighting stories of recovery and
acknowledging the importance of facilitating psychologically safe workplaces. Analysis entailed
an inductive semi-grounded emergent theme approach. Participants identified certain risk factors
as being able to induce suicidal ideation, such as marital or family problems as well as difficulties
at work (i.e., bullying or difficult working conditions). Having children and a partner may act as
factors preventing suicide for those with ideation. Participants sought help from professionals, such
as their family doctor, a psychologist, or the Employee Assistance Program (EAP); however, the lack
of perceived organisational supports and recognition of the issue of suicide by the employer are two
elements that can hinder the search for help.