The language and terminology we use

What we know

Suicide continues to be a criminal offence in at least 23 countries. This has influenced the language used when discussing suicide, and research shows that this can lead to stigma.

While suicide has never been a criminal offence in Scotland, this has not influenced the language used, with some people still using terminology like “committed suicide”. 

Research and the experiences of people with lived and living experience of suicide and suicide-related stigma tell us:

• It is important to be mindful of the language used when discussing suicide. Avoid using the terminology “committed suicide”, which suggests an unlawful act, and instead use terms like “died by suicide” thereby avoiding stigmatising language 

• It is important to use person first language. For example, by saying “a person with suicidal thoughts” or “a person who has attempted suicide” rather than “a suicidal person”

• Do not use negative labels such as “cowardly”, “selfish”, “reckless”, “weak”, “attention-seeking” and “immoral” when describing suicide or someone with experiences of suicide. This stigmatising language can lead to discrimination, social isolation and secrecy among those with experiences of suicide. These negative labels can also be internalised, contributing to self-stigma

• Training and education within workplaces could help promote non-stigmatising language and in turn tackle suicide-related stigma

• Media reporters and journalists should be mindful of the language used around suicide. For more information, please see the section on how media reporting influences our attitudes 

Resources you may find helpful include: 

The Enabling conversations toolkit is a guide created by and for young people. It can help you discover ways you can talk to others about painful feelings like self-harm and suicide in a way that you feel comfortable and in control.