WHY Using the word “commit” can increase shame and stigma around suicide, both for people who have had suicidal thoughts as well as those bereaved by suicide. Commit is a word generally used when talking about crime. Suicide is not a crime. Simplifying the causes of suicide puts more people at risk (if they identify with that cause) and contributes to misunderstandings about how suicide can be prevented. It can also make those who have been bereaved by suicide feel blame or shame. Suicide is complex and a combination of different things such as feelings, actions, circumstances and unwellness. We as a community need to understand what puts people at risk of suicide and how to address these risks. We don’t want to normalise suicide or increase the risk of suicide for people experiencing adversity. Suicide is never inevitable and there are pathways to help. Just raising awareness of suicide as a big issue can increase people’s feelings of hopelessness. Instead, work to increase hope. Suicide is preventable so talk about suicide prevention, not just suicide as an issue. Remind people that help and support are available. Although one suicide death is one too many, using sensational language increases hopelessness and removes the focus from suicide prevention. Rumours about suicide clusters/spikes/increases can be false, increase feelings of hopelessness and can normalise suicide as a response to tough situations. Although anger and shame are understandable reactions to a suicide, it’s important to remember that emphasising these feelings increases the stigma, or sense of shame, about suicide. Stigma around suicide often causes people to hide suicidal feelings and avoid seeking support. Whānau who have been bereaved may be less likely to talk about their feelings and get the tautoko/support they need if we focus on shame and blame. Details about someone’s death are unnecessary and can be deeply distressing. It does not honour the person who has died or their whānau. Talking about the method used in someone’s death can also increase risk for people in the audience who might be having their own thoughts of suicide.
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Your guide to planning a safe suicide prevention event
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