Situation · Work
“My colleague said they'd kill themselves if they lose this job”
What could be going on
Warning signs of suicide risk and self-harm: Talk of suicide is a warning sign; take it seriously and help them reach support.
Major depression: Check for low mood, hopelessness and loss of interest.
Contingent self-worth: Fits if their whole worth is tied to this job.
Burnout: Fits if exhaustion has built up over months.
Emotional blackmail (fear, obligation, guilt): Only after safety is checked: fits if the threat is used to control outcomes.
Questions to carry
- When my colleague said it, how did they look, and who else might know?
- Who could I tell about what my colleague said, so that I am not holding it alone?
Also said as
- coworker talking about suicide
- my employee said they'd rather be dead
- my report hinted at self-harm
- a colleague says life isn't worth it if she's fired
- my coworker threatened suicide over losing her job
- my employee says he'll kill himself if he's fired