b'ForwardThis toolkit represents a collaborative effort with national experts, including clinicians, researchers, and crisis response professionals. While primarily intended for organizational leaders and human resource professionals, this toolkit offers valuable insights for supervisors and employees at all levels. The griefprocess following a death by suicide is unique and different for everyone. The toolkit is designed to assist workplaces in responding immediately in the wake of a suicide, and also in the long-term healing processof the community. While we hope you will never need to use it, within this comprehensive toolkit, we have structured the content into several key sections to provide a cohesive and organized approach to addressing the aftermathof an employees suicide. Each section offers specific guidance and resources to help workplaces navigate this sensitive and critical issue with compassion, competence, and effectiveness.The first section, Developing Postvention Protocols, focuses on the critical task of establishing a Crisis Response Team and creating a connection with mental health resources. It emphasizes the importance of having a well-prepared and responsive team to manage the immediate aftermath of an employees death by suicide. Next, the Crisis Response section outlines the immediate steps to be taken when the suicide occurs. This includes contacting the family of the deceased employee, gathering essential facts, and ensuring a sensitive and compassionate response during this highly emotional time. The Crisis Response Communications section provides guidance on how to coordinate communication plans effectively.It encompasses both internal and external communications strategies, with a specific focus on managing interactions with the media. Ensuring clear, empathetic, and well-managed communication is crucialin times of crisis. As time progresses, the Helping Employees Cope section offers insights into actions to be taken in the weeks following an employees death by suicide. This section emphasizes the importance of supporting staff members who are experiencing grief and trauma and provides guidance on managing external communications to maintain transparency and trust. The Moving Forward section offers a longer-termview, outlining steps to be taken beyond the immediate aftermath. It includes guidance on memorialization, allowing organizations to pay tribute to the deceased employee while also continuing efforts to prevent future suicides and promote mental health awareness.To facilitate practical implementation, the toolkit includes a Tools and Templates section. Here, you will find sample guidelines, correspondence, and procedures that can be customized and used in the aftermath of a suicide. These resources aim to streamline the response process and ensure consistency in actions taken. Lastly, the Additional Resources section serves as a valuable repository of information. It provides sources of further information, mental and behavioral health resources, crisis services, and comprehensive guidance on preparing for and responding to suicide in the workplace. These resources are meant to empower organizations to take proactive steps in promoting mental well-being and suicide prevention.We urge you to explore this toolkit thoroughly and use it as a resource to create a supportive, compassionate, and resilient workplace community. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of our employees and contribute to the mission to save lives and bring hope to those affected by suicide.American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (afsp.org)'