The Sensitive Language of Suicide

"Is It Acceptable to Use the Words “Committed Suicide” When Speaking to Relatives of Suicide Deaths or Survivors of Suicide Attempts?"

Nurse, S. (2024, October). The Sensitive Language of Suicide. LinkedIn. https://www.dhirubhai.net/pulse/sensitive-language-suicide-sam-nurse-ygrwe

Introduction

The language used to discuss suicide is a deeply sensitive and emotionally charged issue, especially when speaking with bereaved families or survivors of suicide attempts. Terms like “committed suicide” have long been embedded in societal lexicons, but recent research highlights the potential harm caused by such language. Critics argue that it perpetuates stigma and exacerbates feelings of shame and isolation for grieving families. Meanwhile, the way suicide is reported in the media has also been shown to have serious societal consequences, particularly through the Werther effect. This brief article evaluates whether it is acceptable to use the phrase "committed suicide" when speaking with those affected by suicide, focusing on its psychological impact and the media's role in influencing public attitudes. Ultimately, this article concludes that while health professionals should use non-stigmatising language, laypersons should not be vilified for using more traditional terms, such as "committed suicide."

The Psychological Impact of Language in Grief and Suicide

For families grieving the loss of a loved one to suicide, language can significantly influence their grieving process. The phrase “committed suicide” is problematic due to its association with criminality and moral judgement, as the word "committed" often implies wrongdoing (Turecki & Brent, 2016). Families who are already dealing with profound loss may experience feelings of shame, guilt, and isolation, which are heightened in cases of suicide bereavement (Shields et al., 2019). Research shows that the bereaved often experience complicated grief, where the stigma attached to suicide further isolates them from social support systems (Feigelman et al., 2018).

Furthermore, using stigmatising language can negatively impact survivors of suicide attempts. Pitman et al. (2017) suggest that phrases such as "committed suicide" reinforce societal judgement and blame, making it difficult for survivors to recover emotionally and psychologically. By perpetuating the notion that suicide is a criminal or moral failing, this language risks reinforcing harmful stereotypes that can prevent individuals from seeking help.

The Werther and Papageno Effects: Media Reporting on Suicide

The way suicide is discussed and reported in the media has far-reaching consequences, particularly through the phenomenon known as the Werther effect. Named after Goethe's novel The Sorrows of Young Werther (Goethe, 1774), the Werther effect describes the increase in suicidal behaviour following media reports of suicide (Phillips, 1974). Research has confirmed that sensational or detailed reporting on suicide can lead to an increase in imitative suicides, particularly among vulnerable populations (Niederkrotenthaler et al., 2010). Media portrayals of suicide that provide specific details about the method used or glamorise the act can increase suicide contagion, with a marked rise in suicides in the weeks following high-profile cases.

However, the research by Niederkrotenthaler et al. (2010) is also known for introducing the concept of the "Papageno effect," which is the counter to the Werther effect. The Papageno effect refers to media reporting that can prevent suicides by offering alternative coping mechanisms or stories of hope. This effect demonstrates that media can play a positive role in suicide prevention by showcasing examples of individuals overcoming crises, thereby providing a message of hope and resilience.

Critique of the Papageno Effect

Despite the promising implications of the Papageno effect, critiques have emerged that question its widespread application. Some researchers argue that focusing on the positive aspects of overcoming adversity may oversimplify the complex psychological states that lead to suicide (Domaradzki, 2021). While the Papageno effect advocates for hope-centred media narratives, it risks promoting a one-dimensional portrayal of suicide prevention, potentially dismissing the seriousness of underlying mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, or trauma. Critics also highlight the challenge of ensuring that media outlets consistently follow these guidelines in an era where sensationalism often drives news coverage. While the Papageno effect has been shown to reduce suicide contagion in specific cases, its impact remains limited without broader societal and mental health interventions to address the root causes of suicidal behaviour.

Niederkrotenthaler et al., (2020) emphasise the crucial role of responsible media reporting in mitigating suicide contagion. Their systematic review highlights that language used in media coverage can either exacerbate or reduce the risk of imitative behaviour. Specifically, they advocate for non-stigmatising terms like "died by suicide" rather than "committed suicide," as this can lower the likelihood of copycat suicides. They also stress that media outlets should avoid providing explicit details of suicide methods and instead focus on offering support resources to individuals in crisis, in line with World Health Organisation media guidelines (World Health Organization, 2023).

Critiques of the Werther Effect and Its Implications

Despite the compelling evidence supporting the Werther effect, some critics argue that focusing solely on media language may not address the broader, more systemic issues contributing to suicide. Cerel et al. (2018) caution that while media guidelines are essential, they should not overshadow the need for improved mental health services and more effective suicide prevention programmes. Stack (2005) also points out that the Werther effect is not universally applicable, with different demographic groups responding to media reports of suicide in varied ways. For example, young men are more susceptible to the Werther effect, while older adults and women may not show the same levels of increased risk.

These critiques suggest that while responsible media coverage is crucial, it is not a panacea for preventing suicide. More comprehensive strategies that include improved access to mental health care, community support, and education about mental health are needed to address the root causes of suicide.

Potential Limitations to Research on Media Effects and Suicide

While media effects research has provided valuable insights into how suicide is influenced by reporting, there are important limitations. Many studies on the Werther and Papageno effects rely on correlational data, making it difficult to prove causality. Confounding variables such as socio-economic conditions, cultural contexts, and pre-existing mental health issues are often not fully accounted for (Niederkrotenthaler et al., 2020; Phillips, 1974). Without experimental designs, it is challenging to establish a direct causal link between media reports and suicide rates.

Moreover, traditional research often relies on retrospective data, which may fail to capture the real-time fluctuations in suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Kleiman & Nock (2018) emphasise the importance of real-time assessments in providing a more dynamic understanding of suicidal ideation. Such methods can reveal short-term triggers and changes in behaviour that retrospective studies might overlook, offering deeper insights into the immediate impact of media portrayals.

Another limitation is that much of the research focuses on high-profile celebrity suicides, which may not reflect the general population’s response to media portrayals of suicide. Stack (2005) highlights how different demographic groups, such as young men versus older adults, respond differently to media reporting, meaning the findings may not be universally applicable. Furthermore, studies typically measure suicide contagion in the short term, neglecting the potential long-term effects of media exposure.

Lastly, media effects studies often fail to account for individual psychological factors, such as personal resilience and social support, that could moderate the influence of media on suicidal behaviour (Cerel et al., 2018). As a result, these studies may oversimplify the complex interaction between media reporting and individual psychological states.

Recent Research on the Dangers of Shaming Language Use

One of the key arguments against stigmatising those who use the term “committed suicide” is the potential harm caused by language policing. Research suggests that while sensitive language is vital in clinical and therapeutic settings, public health messaging should avoid alienating the general population, especially when they are already grappling with loss (Tewksbury & Mustaine, 2010). Cerel et al. (2018) emphasise that shaming individuals for their choice of words can lead to feelings of exclusion, particularly in a time of grief when emotional vulnerability is at its peak.

Furthermore, research by Pitman et al. (2017) found that families who are already struggling with the trauma of losing a loved one to suicide can feel further isolated if they are told that the words they use to describe their experience are inappropriate or harmful. This “language policing” can feel like an additional burden, creating a sense that their grief is being invalidated or judged, even when the intent is to reduce harm.

Balancing Sensitivity in Language and Public Awareness

The shift toward using non-stigmatising language, particularly in professional and media settings, is grounded in the goal of reducing the stigma around suicide and encouraging open, supportive conversations. Health professionals, in particular, are encouraged to adopt phrases like "died by suicide" to create a more compassionate and non-judgemental environment for individuals at risk or those grieving a suicide loss (Niederkrotenthaler et al., 2020). This language shift aligns with broader public health initiatives that seek to destigmatise mental health issues and prevent suicide contagion.

However, it is important to recognise that laypersons, particularly those grieving or emotionally affected by suicide, should not feel confined or shamed for using traditional terms such as "committed suicide." Pitman et al. (2017) highlight that many individuals use this language out of habit or familiarity, and not out of a desire to perpetuate stigma. Forcing them to adhere to specific language guidelines during their time of grief may further isolate them. Shields et al. (2019) also argue that shaming people for their choice of words can prevent open conversations about suicide, as they may fear using the wrong terminology.

The focus should therefore be on educating the public about the impact of language without policing or condemning those who are grieving. Public health campaigns should promote the use of non-stigmatising language in a supportive manner, ensuring that people feel comfortable discussing suicide and mental health without fear of judgement.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while research advocates for the use of non-stigmatising language such as "died by suicide" in professional contexts, it is essential to recognise that laypersons, particularly those grieving a loss, should not be shamed for using terms like "committed suicide." Acknowledging the limitations of existing research, such as the over-reliance on correlational studies, short-term effects, and focus on high-profile cases, can guide the development of more nuanced public health strategies. These limitations underscore the importance of balancing media guidelines with the recognition that rigid language policing may alienate the general public or grieving individuals.

Further research needs to address long-term effects, cultural contexts, and personal psychological factors, all of which contribute to how individuals respond to media portrayals of suicide. Addressing these gaps will allow for a more holistic approach to suicide prevention, one that fosters open dialogue, provides compassionate support for those affected by suicide, and reduces stigma without imposing unnecessary restrictions on how individuals express their grief.

Future strategies should promote inclusive education that encourages the use of sensitive language in clinical settings while allowing laypersons to process their grief in a way that feels natural to them. By addressing these research limitations and refining media guidelines, public health campaigns can create a more balanced approach, one that reduces stigma while respecting the emotional realities of those affected by suicide. Ultimately, this will contribute to more effective, long-lasting suicide prevention efforts.

References

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