Suicide Prevention: Choose Your Words Wisely

Cardinal Innovations Healthcare — September 30, 2020 — 2 min read

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.