Abusive management, organizational restructuring and workers suicides

ABSTRACT

Work is an important social determinant of health promotion; however, psychosocial factors at work can cause suffering and compromise the mental health of workers, causing mental disorders and suicides. In this context, this case study analyzes the interrelationships between the content and context of work and the suicidal behavior of two attempted and two deaths by suicide. The objective of this case study of suicidal behavior involving suicides and attempts was to analyze the context and psychosocial factors of work that contribute to these occurrences, as well as to suggest procedures and guidelines regarding their approach and prevention. It was found that psychosocial factors at work, such as lack of social support and recognition at work, poor organizational culture, abusive situations such as moral harassment, and the relationship with privatization and restructuring processes, developed for these occurrences. The study contributed to highlighting the relationship between work and suicide and the need for approach and prevention. New studies are recommended to support research and surveillance actions in the workplace and the reinvigoration of public policies for suicide prevention.

KEYWORDS
Suicide; Psychology; Working conditions; Risk factors; Suicide prevention