Content note: this post mentions suicide. Please read it when you feel able to, and look after yourself as you do.
If you’re wondering how to support a colleague who is struggling, the short answer is this: you don’t need to be an expert, you just need to be willing. Notice, start the conversation, listen, and know where to point them for support. That’s it. Not easy, necessarily, but not complicated either.
Can suicide be prevented in the workplace?
Suicide is preventable. It is rarely down to one single thing, and the way we show up for each other matters. I want to say that plainly before anything else, because it’s the bit that gives me hope.
Most of us spend a big part of our week with our colleagues. That means the people around us are often well placed to notice when something has changed, sometimes before family or friends do.
I’m not a counsellor, and you don’t have to be one either. Every year, people die by suicide, and each one is someone’s child, parent, partner, friend or colleague. Being willing to notice and care is a genuine part of prevention.
How to spot signs a colleague is struggling
The simplest way I can put it is this: notice when someone isn’t themselves. You know your colleagues. You know what “normal” looks like for them, and you’ll often sense when something has shifted.
That might show up in their mood, behaviour, energy, appearance, attendance, or how they are with the rest of the team. Signs vary from person to person, and some people hide how they feel very well.
A change doesn’t tell you the cause, and it isn’t your job to diagnose anything. Trust your instincts, stay curious and stay kind.
How to start a conversation about mental health at work
First, choose the moment. Somewhere private, unhurried and low pressure is best. A walk, a quiet corner or a brew away from the desks can all help.
Then keep your opening simple and natural. Here are a few general suggestions you can make your own:
- “I’ve noticed you don’t seem quite yourself lately. How are you doing?”
- “I wanted to check in with you. No agenda, I just care how you’re getting on.”
- “You don’t have to tell me anything, but I’m here if you want to talk.”
It’s completely fine to feel awkward. I rarely get the words perfect myself, and I’ve stopped expecting to. What matters far more than the wording is that you asked and meant it.
If you’re worried someone may be thinking about suicide, it’s okay to ask them directly and with care. Asking about suicide does not put the idea in someone’s head. Samaritans and NHS guidance say that talking openly can be a relief for the person.
How to listen and where to signpost someone for support
Once the conversation starts, your main job is to listen. Give them time. Don’t rush to fix things, and try not to judge or minimise what they tell you. Silences are okay. You don’t have to fill them.
Then help them know where to turn. Depending on the situation, that might include:
- Their GP
- Your workplace’s own support routes, such as HR or an employee assistance line, if your workplace has one
- Samaritans, free on 116 123, day or night
If someone may be in immediate danger, encourage them to contact emergency services on 999, or do so yourself.
And please look after yourself too. These conversations can weigh on you. Know when to pass things on, and talk to someone you trust about how you’re feeling.
What does a Workplace Mental Health Ambassador do?
In plain English, a Workplace Mental Health Ambassador is a trained colleague who helps others feel able to talk, and who knows how to point people towards the right support. They are not a therapist, and they don’t try to be.
Having more than one person trained can make a real difference to a team. People are different, and not everyone will feel comfortable approaching the same person. More trained colleagues means more chances for someone to feel heard.
We deliver these courses at H2H Training, bringing the practical, supportive approach that these conversations need. You can see all of our mental health training in Nottingham.
Workplace Mental Health and Wellbeing Ambassador course at H2H Training
Our 2 day Workplace Mental Health and Wellbeing Ambassador course is from £225 per person. It’s practical, supportive and built for real workplaces, and it covers suicide.
(We also offer a 1 day Workplace Mental Health Ambassador course from £135 per person, which also covers suicide).
We deliver training in Nottingham and the East Midlands. If it sounds right for your team, great. If not, no pressure at all.
Key takeaways
- Suicide is preventable, and the way we show up for each other matters.
- Notice when someone isn’t themselves, without trying to diagnose.
- Start the conversation, ask with care, and really listen.
- Know where to point people: their GP, workplace support, Samaritans on 116 123, and 999 in an emergency.
- Look after yourself too.
If you or someone you know needs support, Samaritans are free on 116 123, day or night.
If you’d like to talk about training for your team, have a look at H2H Training. I’d be happy to hear from you.
Written by Graham Hepburn and Rachel Hawkins, FAIB-registered trainers at H2H Training. Last reviewed October 2026. Graham on LinkedIn Rachel on LinkedIn
