When Burnout Goes Too Far: Understanding Suicidal Ideation and Its Impact

Trigger Warning:

This article discusses suicide and suicidal ideation, which may be distressing to some readers.

If you or someone you know is struggling, please seek help from a trusted person or reach out

to a mental health professional. In Canada, you can call or text 988 for immediate support. If

you are in danger, please call 911.

We often think of burnout as feeling tired, snappy, or overwhelmed. But when it lingers too long

and gets too heavy, it can morph into something darker—something that’s hard to talk about:

suicidal thoughts. This piece is a candid look into the serious side of burnout, the kind we don’t

always see coming, and why it’s so important to recognize the signs and reach out early.

I’ll be honest—I’m not a suicide expert. But as a physician, I’ve been there for patients who’ve

found themselves at that painful crossroads. Some managed to hold on long enough to find

hope again. Others didn’t. That reality stays with me.

I’m writing this not as an authority, but as someone who cares deeply, hoping this might be the

lifeline someone needs. If you’re struggling—or know someone who is—please, don’t keep it to

yourself. Reaching out isn’t weakness; it’s courage.

The Link Between Burnout and Suicidal Ideation

Burnout isn’t just about being tired after a long week. It’s a kind of emotional, mental, and

physical exhaustion that builds over time when stress never lets up. And if no one notices or

intervenes, it can spiral into suicidal ideation. That’s when life starts to feel unbearable, like

there’s no way out, no light at the end of the tunnel.

You might notice signs like:

• Feeling drained all the time

• Trouble focusing or making even small decisions

• Pulling away from friends or family

• Mood swings, from anxiety to numbness to anger

• And in some heartbreaking cases, thoughts of self-harm or suicide

According to the World Health Organization, suicide claims around 720,000 lives every year. In

Canada alone, it’s roughly 4,500 lives annually—an average of 12 people daily. Men are three

times more likely to die by suicide than women, though women attempt more often.

September marks Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, with World Suicide Prevention Day on

the 10th. It's more than a date on the calendar—it’s a reminder to talk, listen, and show up for

each other.

Suicide in Healthcare Providers: A Growing Concern

People in healthcare are no strangers to burnout, and unfortunately, that puts them at higher

risk for suicidal thoughts, too. Long shifts, constant emotional strain, and regular exposure to

suffering take a real toll. What’s worse, there’s still this lingering stigma in the medical world that

makes asking for help feel like admitting failure.

A 2019 National Institutes of Health study laid it out clearly: physicians are more likely to die by

suicide than the general public. Female doctors are especially at risk, with rates 130% higher

than those of women in other professions. For male doctors, it’s 40% higher.

What’s feeding this disturbing trend?

• Perfectionism: The pressure to always get it right can create a crushing fear of failure.

• Emotional fatigue: Constantly dealing with illness and loss wears you down.

• Silence and stigma: Many feel they can’t speak up without risking their careers.

• Lack of support: There's often nowhere safe to share how they’re feeling.

  
  

Notable Figures Who Lost Their Lives to Suicide

Suicide doesn’t care about success, fame, or fortune. It touches all walks of life. And

sometimes, sharing these stories reminds us that even those who seem to “have it all” may be

fighting invisible battles.

Robin Williams (1951–2014)

The beloved comedian and Oscar winner made the world laugh, even while he wrestled with

deep pain. After his death, it was revealed he had Lewy body dementia—a heartbreaking

neurological disease. His story reminded us that mental health is often more complex than it

looks.

Anthony Bourdain (1956–2018)

The adventurous chef, writer, and TV host connected cultures through food. But despite his

vibrant life on-screen, he struggled with addiction and depression behind the scenes. His loss

left many questioning how well we really know those we admire.

Kate Spade (1962–2018)

The woman behind the joyful, colourful brand battled anxiety and depression. Her death shook

many, especially because her public image seemed so bright. It opened up meaningful

conversations about how outward success doesn't shield us from inner struggles.

Cheslie Kryst (1991–2022)

A lawyer, TV correspondent, and Miss USA 2019, Cheslie was known for her grace and

advocacy. Her death was a powerful reminder that people can be admired, accomplished, and

still deeply hurt.

Physicians and Healthcare Workers

We’ve lost far too many colleagues to suicide. These losses often happen quietly, talked about

in hushed tones—if at all. But silence helps no one. These stories aren’t just tragedies; they’re

calls to action.

Why Is Suicide So Prevalent Among Healthcare Providers?

It’s not just the stress that pushes healthcare professionals toward the edge—it’s the

environment we work in. There’s a perfect storm of factors that can make things worse:

• Stigma: Even today, admitting you’re struggling can feel like career suicide.

• Constant trauma: Caring for others through pain, death, and chaos wears you thin.

• Burnout: Endless hours, no breaks, and a culture that glorifies self-sacrifice don’t leave

much space for healing.

• Easy access: Many doctors and nurses have access to lethal means, which adds

another layer of risk.

What Can Be Done?

The answer isn’t simple, but it starts with real change, both culturally and systemically.

• Start talking: Honest conversations are the first step in breaking stigma.

• Build better support: Healthcare organizations must create safe, judgment-free spaces

for people to seek help.

• Offer real resources: Mental health support needs to be accessible and tailored to the

needs of medical professionals.

• Rethink the grind: Healthier work schedules, mental health days, and boundaries

matter.

• Educate and empower: Give healthcare workers the tools to build resilience and cope

with the emotional demands of the job.

A Message of Hope

If you’re in that dark place, it might feel like nothing will ever get better. But those feelings, as

heavy as they are, can pass. Help is out there—and it works. Please, don’t carry this burden

alone.

You’re not alone.

You matter.

Help is real—and so is hope.

Resources for Help

• Canada: Call or text 988 for free, 24/7 support.

• United States: Dial 988 for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline

• International: Check out the International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP) for

global help options.

Final Thoughts

Suicide is complicated. It’s painful, real, and touches more lives than we realize. As someone

who’s walked alongside people in their darkest moments, I can tell you—this issue needs more

than awareness. It requires empathy, action, and a culture that values mental wellness as much

as physical health.

If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out. Your story is not over, and there is

always hope.