5 Ways to Support a Colleague Bereaved by Suicide

"But we don't have the budget right now..."

This phrase echoed repeatedly in my conversations with one of my clients who kept putting off Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training for their managers. Despite acknowledging the critical importance of these skills, budgetary constraints were always cited as a barrier.

From Concern to Shock

My concern deepened into shock when they reached out to me with devastating news— one of their senior managers had taken his own life.

This tragic event underscored the urgent need for mental health support in the workplace.

Did you know that World Suicide Prevention Day is on the 10th of September 2024?

?

The Ripple Effect

The knock-on effect on the company of losing a senior member of a team sent shockwaves across the organisation. The ripple effect of shock and grief was tremendous, affecting the lives of many people within the company.

?

Even if we are not personally connected to the individual who took their own life, we may find ourselves feeling unsettled, distressed, and unsure of how to support others during such a challenging time.

?

For many, this tragic event becomes the point of no return, affecting not only the person who died but also their families and friends.

?

We often find ourselves asking these questions:

What could have been done differently?

What could we have done to prevent that person from reaching that point?

How could I have helped?

How could I have spotted the signs?

Did I put too much pressure on them?

Why didn’t I ease their workload more?

?

How can we support our team members if they have been exposed to someone taking their own life, whether a work colleague, a friend, a family member, or even an acquaintance? The consequences are far-reaching, affecting people on many levels.

?

A Suicide Assessment Therapist's Viewpoint

Khara Crosswaite Brindle, a suicide assessment therapist, and owner at Croswaite Counseling PLLC, sheds light on how to honour the memory of those lost to suicide, rather than dwelling on the method.

You can watch her full interview about the ‘Story of Suicide [Trigger Warning]’ on our Mental Health Chats YouTube and Podcast.

Khara, known for her passion for saving more lives from suicide, helps others understand how to support themselves and those around them when faced with such a tragedy.

Here are 5 ways to support others in their team who have been bereaved by suicide:

?

1.? Make time to check how they are. This does not have to be in the office. You may go for a walk or a coffee. This is crucial in showing them that they are not alone and that their feelings are valid. This can be done in a way that feels comfortable and natural for them.

?

2.? Give them time to tell their story. It's about creating a safe space where they can share their feelings, memories, and experiences related to the loss.

?

3.? Be present and listen. Listen attentively without interrupting or trying to impose your own feelings or experiences. It's important to understand that being present is more than physical presence. It's about being mentally and emotionally available to them.

?

4.?? Don’t judge them. Their grief, reactions, and coping mechanisms can vary greatly, and it's important to remember that there's no 'right' or 'wrong' way to grieve.

?

5.?? Remember, grief has no time limits. They may feel fine one day but then be triggered on another day. People cope with grief differently, and it's not linear. It's important to understand that healing from grief doesn't mean forgetting about the loss but learning to live with it.

?

Seeking Support

Numerous charities, including The Samaritans, offer helplines for individuals experiencing suicidal thoughts. For more information, visit their website at www.samaritans.org.

?

Spotting the Signs

Invest in your team's emotional well-being now.

At NOVA Associates, we run programmes for leaders and managers covering topics including spotting the signs of mental health concerns, opening up mental health conversations, and managing workplace stress and well-being.

Don’t wait for someone you know to take their own life, to shake up the way you approach your team’s mental health.

The more time you invest in mental fitness and emotional resilience early on, the more prepared your team will be to handle life-changing events.

?

If you need help with these areas, schedule a Strategy Call with Clare Davis and discuss how you can empower your leaders and teams to develop a positive mental health culture within your organisation.

Visit our website to learn more.