# Standing together through the hardest moments: supporting teams after a suicide

- URL: https://hr-passionista.com/en/workplace-suicide-guide-for-hr-and-leaders/
- Published: 2026-01-27
- Updated: 2026-01-28
- Author: Marion Eppinger (HR-Passionista)
- Categories: communication, corporate culture & collaboration

> Guide for HR and leaders on handling suicide at work: communication, team support and structured crisis response in organizations.

A suicide within a company or among an employee’s friend of family is always an exceptional case that affects everyone involved  deeply and **overwhelmingly.** 

In such situations, it is important for companies to understand how they can **support** their employees.

### Show compassion

Managers should arrange a **personal conversation** with those affected. Offer them a drink and create a relaxed, open atmosphere free from distractions. **Having** a packet **of tissues ready** can also be helpful.

### Use ‚I‘ messages

*„I heard what happened. I am very upset and at a loss for words. Is there anything I can do to support you?“
***Have the courage to pause** and wait for the other person to respond.

### Support from family and friends

**Contact** relatives or friends together with the affected person so that they can be **picked up**. If no one can be reached, accompany the affected person home with the manager or a trusted colleague.

### Call in the crisis intervention team

If the incident occurred on company premises, call in the crisis intervention team immediately. This usually happens automatically when the police, fire brigade or emergency services are called. However, to be on the safe side, this should be explicitly mentioned, as those affected and their environment **need support** in such situations**.**

### Occupational psychologists and EAP providers

If the affected person is a relative, arrange an occupational psychologist to be present (if available) or provide the number of the EAP provider. They are **well trained** for such incidents and can offer initial support.

### Appropriate leave and sick leave

The two days of leave provided for by law are often insufficient. Consider whether leave of absence or sick leave would be more appropriate. Encourage affected employees to take as much time as they need and seek professional help.

### Offer grief counselling and regular discussions

Offer grief counselling and **regular discussions** to help employees **process** their **feelings.**

### Workshops and training

**Organise** workshops and training courses for your team and colleagues to improve their **understanding** of suicide and **suicide prevention**. **Raise awareness** to help people deal with such situations more effectively.

### Build supportive networks

Encourage **exchange** with colleagues or like-minded people by building supportive networks.

![](https://hr-passionista.com/media/2025/11/DSC01841-Edit.jpg)

### My conclusion

I hope I have given you some **food for thought** here.

It is important for the company to adopt a **supportive** and **compassionate attitude** and showing employees that they are not alone.

Often, simply being there and listening is enough.