When a co-worker dies by suicide

Many people who attempt suicide are in such emotional pain they cannot rationally consider other alternatives.

 

Why do people do it?

There is no single cause for suicide. However, one common reason people commit suicide is because they are severely depressed and feel there is no other way to end their suffering.

 

Younger persons who kill themselves often have a substance use disorder, in addition to being depressed. Rational thought may be overwhelmed by feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness and isolation. The person may not necessarily want to die but cannot see other alternatives.

 

Risk factors for suicide include:

  • Mental illness or substance use disorders
  • Adverse life events such as divorce, serious financial problems, arrest, or job loss
  • Family history of suicide or mental health/substance use disorders
  • Access to firearms
  • Prior suicide attempts
  • Exposure to suicidal behaviors of others including other family members, friends, or celebrities

 

Common responses Research shows that at least six people are directly affected by a person who dies by suicide, including immediate family members, relatives, neighbors, friends, and co-workers.

 

A co-worker’s suicide often has a deep impact on people in the workplace and can bring up a host of emotions. Common reactions include shock, sadness, bewilderment, guilt, and even anger. The suicide may bring up painful memories for co-workers who have lost other friends or family members to suicide, or who have been severely depressed themselves.

 

How you can help yourself

It’s normal to feel a range of emotions when you hear that someone you worked with has died by suicide.

 

Ways you can help yourself include the following:

  • Talk about the death and your feelings with supportive co- workers, friends, and family members.
  • Attend the funeral or memorial service.
  • Participate in grief counseling or support groups that are made available through the company.
  • These supportive services can help people process their feelings about the event and help each other cope.
  • Seek additional support if you continue to have trouble functioning and difficulty coping with the loss of your co-worker. Your Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is a good place to start. If you are in treatment for depression or other mood disorder, contact your doctor or therapist.

 

How you can help your co-workers

Your co-workers may have a range of conflicting feelings about the death. Tips to be helpful to others:

  • Recognize that each person has his/her own feelings about death and suicide. Some people have strong religious beliefs that impact how they feel. Be non- judgmental about how co-workers process their emotions.
  • Be supportive to others. Encourage co-workers to seek counseling if they are struggling with their own emotional issues.
  • Acknowledge the person’s memory in an appropriate way. Co-workers may wish to collect money for a charitable donation, create a memory book, or perhaps plant a tree in the company's courtyard.
  • Avoid participating in the rumor mill. Unnatural death often sparks rumors and speculation that can be distracting and disrespectful.

 

 

Additional Resources

 

Your program is here to help you along the journey of life. No situation is too big or too small. When you and your household members need assistance, reach out anytime and we will help get you on the right path to meet your needs.

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