Suicide is not an easy topic to talk about, yet it’s one we cannot ignore. Every year, thousands of working-age adults around the world lose their lives to suicide. Behind each statistic is a person with dreams, relationships and a story, a colleague who once shared a laugh in the break room, a friend who always asked how your weekend was or a family member you thought was doing fine.
At RecTrain, we believe mental health is just as important as physical health and we are committed to building a workplace where everyone feels supported, valued and safe to speak up. Work is a major part of our daily lives. It can bring purpose, stability and connection. But it can also carry pressures that weigh heavily on a person’s mind and heart. Long hours, intense workloads, financial uncertainty, bullying, harassment and isolation, especially for those in remote roles can all contribute to emotional strain. For someone already feeling low, these challenges can push them further into hopelessness.
Often, the signs that someone is struggling are subtle. They may withdraw from conversations or avoid social contact altogether. Their work performance might dip, or they may start missing more days than usual. Some may talk about feeling hopeless or like a burden. Others may show sudden mood changes especially seeming “unusually fine” after a long period of sadness or rely more on alcohol and drugs to cope.
If you notice these signs in a colleague, the most important thing you can do is approach them with empathy. You don’t need to have all the right words or know exactly what to say. Sometimes, just asking, “I’ve noticed you seem a bit different lately, how are you doing?” can open the door to a conversation they’ve been too afraid to start. That small gesture can be a turning point and in some cases, it can save a life.
A truly supportive workplace is one where people feel comfortable asking for help. This means providing Employee Assistance Programs, promoting mental health awareness through training and resources and encouraging a healthy work-life balance. Leaders play a critical role by listening without judgment and ensuring that clear, confidential processes are in place for anyone seeking help.
Yet beyond policies and programs, real change comes from people looking out for one another. We can all make a difference. Check in on your colleagues, use the resources available to you and respect your own boundaries and those of others.
If you need assistance in this regard, reach out to a friend, colleague or the following organisations:
- Suicide Prevention Foundation: 024 069 2691
- Mental Health Authority: 0800 678 678
Together, we can break the silence, reduce stigma and build workplaces where everyone feels supported.