Bereavement leave can be used whenever you need it in relation to the death. You don’t have to use it right away, and you don’t need to take the days all at once.
If you’re employed and have worked at your job for at least six months, you are entitled to up to three days of paid bereavement leave. Depending on your employment agreement, you may be entitled to more. However, for many people navigating the deep and complex grief of suicide loss, three days feel far from enough. If you need additional time, you might consider speaking with your employer about extended leave options or flexible arrangements.
If you need more than three days
Your employer may be open to making further arrangements with you. These might include:
- Offering bereavement leave in advance
- Allowing you to use some of your annual leave (this is your choice – your employer can’t require it)
- Granting additional time off as unpaid leave.
Grief doesn’t follow a schedule. If it’s an option for you, consider taking the time you need and ask for support to navigate your leave options.
Returning to mahi/work
Everyone’s experience of returning to mahi/work after a suicide loss is different, and it’s okay to take things at your own pace. These ideas may help you think about what support might make that transition easier.
You might want to ask for flexible hours, a reduced workload, working from home, or a phased return. Employee assistance program (EAP) counselling services or cultural support, if your employer offers it, may also be something you’d like to explore right now.
It can also help to set up a plan with HR, letting them know what kind of support feels right for you. This could look like having a quiet space to retreat to when grief hits or discussing how (or if) you’d like to talk about what’s happened with hoa mahi/colleagues.
Deciding whether to share that the death was a suspected suicide is a deeply personal choice. There’s no right or wrong – only what feels safe and appropriate for you. Some people find it helpful to be open with trusted colleagues, while others prefer to keep the details private. If you do decide to share, you might find it grounding to use simple, clear language like: “It was a suspected suicide and I’m still coming to terms with it.” You don’t owe anyone a full explanation. Sharing at your own pace, with support if needed, can help you feel more in control of the narrative and protect your space.
Refer to Letting whānau, friends and colleagues know for more guidance.