It’s important to change the language around
suicide, to avoid shaming those who have attempted or completed suicide. Someone you’re talking with could be considering suicide. Or, perhaps, they’ve been directly affected by it. Either way, your words matter.
Avoid Stigmatizing Suicide
Say this
|
Not That
|
| Died by suicide, ended their life |
Committed suicide |
| Completed suicide |
Successful suicide |
| Attempted suicide |
Failed suicide attempt |
Be Direct if You Think Someone’s Considering Suicide
Say This
|
Not That
|
| Are you thinking about killing yourself? |
Are you thinking about doing something bad to yourself? |
| Are you thinking about taking your life? |
Are you thinking about harming yourself? |
Reach Out—Don’t Wait for Them to Ask You for Help
Say This
|
Not That
|
| Have you considered seeing a professional/therapist to help understand what you’re feeling? I can help you get connected, so you are not alone in this. |
You shouldn’t kill yourself because:
- That’s selfish
- Your family would miss you
- There are others who have it worse
- You will go to Hell
|
| What you’re going through is hard. I am here for you. Would you like to talk about it? |
Suicide is just a permanent solution to a temporary problem. |
| Hey! How have you been feeling? Seems like we haven’t spoken in a while. I wanted to check in as I care about you. |
You should call me more. |
| Please come to me whenever you’re feeling sad. |
I don’t need your bad vibes. |
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