A recent graduate who landed a sought-after position at a leading British cybersecurity firm died by suicide while experiencing profound imposter syndrome, an inquest has heard.
Amy Havers, 22, had been offered a role at BAE Digital Intelligence in September of the previous year after excelling in a summer internship. Despite receiving positive feedback on her performance as a Business Analyst, she became convinced that she was not measuring up to her colleagues, according to statements made to investigators.
Her father, Lee Havers, told investigators that his daughter felt she was underperforming compared to other graduates and suffered from imposter syndrome. Her boyfriend, Daniel Hudson, a nuclear engineer, described their relationship as "perfect" after meeting at university. However, he recounted that Havers often expressed her feelings of not contributing and that her feedback from the company was consistently positive, leading her to believe they might be "lying to her."
Hadvers began to experience distress, often calling Hudson on her commute home in tears. He stated that on one occasion, she cried for approximately 45 minutes during the journey. Concerned by her state of mind, Hudson discussed the situation with his father and messaged Havers' mother. Havers felt she was a burden by discussing her work-related anxieties and that she was frequently upset, which was not her usual disposition.
During a weekend visit to her family home in July, Havers expressed her distress, telling her boyfriend, "I can’t do this. I want out." She repeated this sentiment twice more, once in the presence of her father. When asked by Hudson if she had considered self-harm, she initially denied it but promised to call him if such thoughts arose. Hudson left her a note reading, "You can do this."
After Hudson departed on Sunday afternoon, Havers sent him a Snapchat message showing her crying. She did not reply to his subsequent response. Her mother, Nerys Havers, returned home later that evening to find her daughter deceased in the hallway. Emergency services attended, but Havers could not be revived and was pronounced dead at the scene.
An inquest at Oxfordshire Coroners’ Court heard that Havers had no prior history of depression or significant medical issues before joining BAE Digital Intelligence. Toxicology tests were negative for alcohol, drugs, and prescription medications. Coroner Joanna Coleman recorded a verdict of suicide, stating she was satisfied Havers intended to end her life.
A spokesperson for BAE Systems expressed deep sadness at Havers' death and extended condolences to her family, friends, and colleagues. The company stated that Havers was highly regarded and that her contributions and positive impact would not be forgotten.
For confidential support, individuals can contact Samaritans in the UK on 116 123 or visit samaritans.org.