Responding with Respect
Everyone plays an important role in creating healthy and respectful work environments. The 3 R’s (Recognize, Respond, Refer) are a tool we can use to provide support and guide respectful communication.
If at any time it is believed that the health or safety of members of the McMaster community is at risk, contact Campus Safety Services. Any reference to ending one’s life, suicide or threat of violence must be taken seriously.
For emergencies at the central campus: contact McMaster Campus Safety Services
For emergencies at other campuses:
Hamilton Health Sciences: Dial extension 5555 St. Joseph’s Hospital: Dial extension 7777 Off-site locations: Dial 911
Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP) – Telus Health:
Dial 1-833-366-4544, visit us online at login.lifeworks.com or download the mobile app.
Suicide Crisis Line: Dial 1-855-294-HOPE (4673)
While you wait for support – you can continue the conversation. Always be empathetic and non-judgmental. Never try to physically stop someone from leaving. You should remain with the individual if possible or note where they go. Be conscious of safety at all times.
Distinguishing between signs of distress and emergency signs and symptoms can be difficult. Signs of distress still need to be followed up appropriately, but do not always require an emergency call.
Contacts for Crisis Support
Having a framework for recognition of distress, and how to respond helps provide support when talking to colleagues about concerns.
Recognizing distress and responding in a respectful and supportive manner promotes early intervention and recovery.
Using a person’s historic standard of behaviour:
Reflect on any visible changes in behaviour that might be uncharacteristic:
Reaching out to a colleague shows care and concern, and opens a dialogue to check how they are doing.
Think about the best way to approach your colleague about your concerns.
Here are some examples of wording you could use to help start a conversation:
“You mentioned… [review the issue that was mentioned]… Would you like to talk about it?” “I’m concerned about you… [issue or behaviour change]… I’m here if you would like to talk, and there are other resources available to you at McMaster…”
“You mentioned… [review the issue that was mentioned]… Would you like to talk about it?”
“I’m concerned about you… [issue or behaviour change]… I’m here if you would like to talk, and there are other resources available to you at McMaster…”
Remember it is okay if someone does not want to talk – you can let them know that you are available if they change their mind and leave the door open for discussion at another time.
It’s okay to be uncertain about how to respond. You don’t need to have all the answers.
Being there to support your colleagues is often the most valuable thing that you can do.
Remember referring is not counselling and making a referral for the right help is important.
Here’s an example of some wording you could use to provide a referral:
“I want to ensure you get the support you are looking for. Here are some materials/phone numbers/resources…”
Referrals can include: