Why communication is at the heart of suicide prevention
Renee Story had a gift for making people feel seen. Whether she was leading a meeting, celebrating a coworker’s wedding, or welcoming a new baby, she brought energy and care to everything she did. At our Decatur plant, where she served as executive director of plant management, she was respected for her drive, her perfectionism, and her relentless follow-through.
“Everybody wanted to be Renee when it came to follow up,” recalls Bonnie Jenkins, Senior Director, EHS.
But in 2021, her leadership team began to notice subtle changes. Renee seemed quieter. Decision-making became harder. She missed work more often, and when she was there, she appeared withdrawn and tired.
“We recognized those abnormal behaviors,” says Bonnie. “And we knew the right thing to do—get her help.”
The team stepped in, but there were gaps. Renee’s husband thought she was at work when she wasn’t. Her parents didn’t know she was on leave. Without a full picture, it was harder for those who loved her to offer support. During the holidays that year, Renee lost her life to suicide.
“Her employees were blindsided. She’d been part of so many of their milestones. It was inconceivable to them, and devastating for those who had worked alongside her for years,” says Bonnie.
The lesson: speak up
Bonnie’s takeaway is simple but powerful communication can save lives. “Once you see signs something’s going on, take the time to ask questions. Is there a divorce? A major loss? Then ask coworkers and family to check in, too,” she says.
While those conversations might feel uncomfortable, Bonnie believes they’re worth it. “Getting others involved might upset the person in the moment, but it can also open the door to the help they need. Create that network of care around them and then connect them to resources.”
At GE Appliances, those resources have grown stronger over the last decade—from the foundation of the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) to onsite care through CareATC, dedicated Suicide Prevention Month programming, and trained emergency response team members.
“We’re all better at work when our mental and physical wellbeing are in a good place,” says Bonnie. “I make sure my team knows about events, programs, and benefits—then I encourage them to take advantage. If we’ve got it, use it. I support you.”
This Suicide Prevention Month, you can help:
- If you’re a Mental Health Ally, join the “Check-In Challenge” for a chance to win.
- Schedule a meeting with an EAP counselor—just to talk.
- Attending a Lunch & Learn about suicidal ideation (offered at MRO).
- Place a sticker on a Remembrance Memorial in your building.
- Stop by a Wellness Zone in an onsite café to pick up mental health resources.
Bonnie knows the lingering question after a loss: What else could I have done? She’s carried that question since losing her cousin to suicide in 1994, and again after Renee’s passing.
“Let’s remove the stigma around mental health,” she says. “It’s okay to have these conversations. In fact, it’s necessary.”
Life Happens: Free, Confidential Support for You
GE Appliances’ Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offers free, confidential support for employees and their families. From managing depression and addiction to caring for elderly relatives, these resources are here to help with personal challenges and mental health needs.
Access care today at GEAppliancesWellWithin.com to explore confidential support, more than 14 resources, and inspiring employee stories about what matters most—your emotional, social, physical, and financial wellbeing.
