The original policy can be found at https://cam.illinois.edu/policies/hr-74/

Purpose

To set forth the response to a suicide, attempted suicide, or threat of suicide by a faculty or staff member.

Scope

This policy applies to all employees.

Authority

Office of the Chancellor

Policy

Faculty and staff are expected to report to Faculty/Staff Assistance and Well-Being Services (FSAWS) all incidents of suicidal threats and suicide attempts by university employees. In accordance with the procedures accompanying this policy, FSAWS will respond to a report that an employee has threatened or attempted suicide, has engaged in efforts to prepare to die by suicide or has expressed a preoccupation with suicide.

Processes/Procedures/Guidelines

Responding to a Mental Health Emergency

When faculty or staff are made aware of a situation of imminent suicidal or homicidal plan by any university employee, they should call 911 prior to responding to FSAWS.

Responding to A Report of Suicide Threat or Attempt That Is Not Imminent

In the event a faculty or staff member receives a report of a suicide threat or attempt that is not imminent, the expectation is to consult with FSAWS to develop a plan of support.

Contact Information for Faculty/Staff Assistance and Well-Being Services, Suicide and Crisis Lifeline

Website: https://humanresources.illinois.edu/about/culture-learning-engagement/faculty-staff-assistance-and-well-being-services/

FSAWS phone: (217) 244-5312 (Monday-Friday, 8:30am to 5pm); (217) 244-7739 (24-hour crisis line)

Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (24/7) – 988

Responding to Reported Incidents of Threats and/or Attempts of Suicide

1. Face-to-Face Evaluation to Determine Lethality
   Upon receiving a report of an employee’s threatened or attempted suicide, Human Resources/department will contact the employee of concern and encourage to meet in person with FSAWS as soon as practicable to assess the imminence and lethality of the threatened or attempted suicide. This assessment will include:
   1. gathering information about the nature and severity of the current situation
   2. identifying the recommended level of intervention needed
   3. offering to begin counseling at FSAWS and/or referral to an appropriate community resource
2. Employee Declines Evaluation
   If the individual chooses not to meet with FSAWS and the information obtained is deemed to put the individual or others in serious threat of harm, a welfare check may be called in to local law enforcement to assess the individual’s well-being. University of Illinois Response Evaluation and Crisis Help (REACH) team will be dispatched as available. REACH teams consist of a mental health professional and specially trained police officer.
3. Additional Sessions
   FSAWS will offer any employee who is reported to have made a suicide threat or attempt voluntary, follow up counseling sessions at FSAWS until the crisis has subsided. The employee may choose to attend sessions with the employee’s ongoing mental health professional.
4. Services Are Confidential and Voluntary
   All records associated with the reported incident will be handled and maintained in a manner consistent with any applicable federal and state laws including but not limited to confidentiality laws. Although use of FSAWS services is voluntary, employees are strongly encouraged to use these services.

Responding to Those Affected by a Completed Suicide

In the tragic event of an employee suicide, the University will provide supportive services to co-workers, employees, bystanders, and any other member of the University community affected by the employee’s death.

Additional Resources:

Response, Evaluation And Crisis Help

Suicide Incident Referrals for Students

Exceptions

None

Contact

Director, Faculty/Staff Assistance and Well-Being Services, (217) 244-5312