Suicide prevention and recovery

Suicide and substance use disorders are more common than most people think. This month, we explore these topics and provide resources and tools to support you and the people close to you.

View the tools and resources from Optum below.

World Suicide Prevention – September 10: Suicide is a global health issue. No one wants to believe someone they care about could take their own life. Suicide is preventable, but persistent stigma discourages many people from seeking help. Read article

Leaders supporting recovery in the workplace: Recovery from a substance use disorder is a journey. This podcase will provide leaders with tips and actionable steps they can take to support employees in recovery and thereby strengthen the workplace culture. Play podcast

Suicide prevention resource and support: Suicide is a global health issue. But it’s not often discussed openly. Need information on resources or other ways to help? Here are some ideas to get started. Read article

A video resource for parents: Parents to Parents: After your Child’s Suicide Attempt, is created from interviews with parents and experts. The parents interviewed for this video have been there and understand. We hope this video offers some practical guidance for the days and weeks to come, but, more importantly, hope. Watch video

Using positive affirmations to empower yourself: The stories we tell ourselves help shape how we think and what we feel. Practicing positive affirmations encourages us to focus on our strengths and potential and helps us challenge unhelpful thoughts. Read more

Opioid use and misuse are growing: The illegal drug markets are expanding globally. To help reverse this distressing trend, health care, policymaking and justice organizations around the world are working to raise awareness of the risks associated with opioid use and misuse. Read article

Take care of yourself supporting someone in recovery: Whether you’re stopping in from time to time or present daily, helping take care of someone in recovery can make a significant difference. How you show support, how often and to what extent should be balanced with your own needs. Read article

Suicide prevention: Suicide remains one of the leading causes of death worldwide. This training program raises awareness of the risk factors of suicide and how to intervene if you believe someone is at risk. Download

Even your strong friends might need support: It’s important to check on your friends and family members who seem OK or even appear physically and emotionally strong. Read article

5 Things in your mental health emergency kit: Picture a first aid kit. It’s a little box with bandages, disinfectant, pain medication, etc. A mental health emergency kit functions in the same way but for your emotions. Read article

September 8th is 988 Day – Mental health emergency? Call 988: Life can be challenging. If you or someone you care about is struggling, know that help is available 24 hours a day. Read more

Optum EAP

The Optum Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is a free service for all full-time state employees and those in their household and can be a beneficial tool to improve your overall well-being. You have 8 free face-to-face EAP counseling visits with a licensed therapist available per issue, per year. These tools and resources are available 24/7 and are completely confidential.

Contact Optum EAP

Phone: (800) 886-9747 (24/7 support) 

Website: liveandworkwell.com (Access code: Indiana)
Access all the Optum EAP online tools and resources.

Connect through the Optum Assist app
Available in the App Store and Google Play. Log into the app and enter access code: Indiana