When it comes to suicide prevention, awareness is key. But just as important—yet often overlooked, is how we talk about suicide. In Australia, where over 3,000 people die by suicide each year and thousands more attempt it, language can either create safe spaces for healing or reinforce harmful stigma.
At Suicide Programs, we believe that thoughtful, respectful communication is a powerful tool in saving lives. This blog explores why language matters and how small changes in how we speak can create a big impact, especially in workplaces, schools, and homes across the country.
Why language matters more than we think
Words shape how we see the world, and how we treat others in it. For decades, the term “committed suicide” has been commonly used. But what many don’t realise is that the word “committed” stems from a time when suicide was considered a crime. Today, suicide is no longer illegal in Australia, yet the outdated terminology persists, often unconsciously reinforcing shame or judgement.
Preferred alternatives include “died by suicide”, “took their own life”, or “lost their life to suicide.” These terms focus on compassion, not blame.
According to Everymind, reducing stigma through language makes it easier for people to seek help. This is crucial because many Australians still suffer in silence, especially those in high-risk populations like men, LGBTQIA+ individuals, Indigenous Australians, and youth.
Stigma starts in conversations
In everyday life, we might not even notice the way we talk about mental health or suicide. Phrases like “attention-seeking”, “weak”, or “crazy” can be deeply hurtful—and they prevent people from opening up when they most need support.
Being aware doesn’t mean walking on eggshells. It means being kind and curious. It means saying:
“How can I support you?”
“I'm here to listen, no judgement.”
“You’re not alone.”
And when you're unsure? It's okay to ask. Honest conversations, especially when someone is in distress, can literally save lives. As Life in Mind Australia outlines, asking someone directly about suicide does not increase the risk. In fact, it can be a relief for someone who feels isolated or misunderstood.
Creating safe conversations through training
At Suicide Programs, we know that language isn’t just about words—it’s about skill. That’s why we’ve developed evidence-based, Australian-specific training programs to help individuals and workplaces feel confident having these vital conversations.
Here are two of our most popular workshops:
CALM : A powerful framework for recognising signs of distress, opening conversations, and supporting someone through crisis safely and respectfully.
Be Well, Stay Well: A proactive mental health resilience workshop designed for everyday settings, promoting early intervention and wellbeing literacy.
Our programs equip Australians, from frontline workers to educators and HR leaders, with the skills to listen with empathy, respond appropriately, and reduce the risk of suicide through informed action.
Language and culture: what’s respectful, what’s harmful
Australia’s diversity brings with it different cultural attitudes toward mental health and suicide. For some Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, suicide can carry complex meanings. In the Tiwi Islands, for instance, there’s no traditional word for suicide, highlighting how colonial influences have shaped the current crisis.
For this reason, language must also be culturally sensitive. At Suicide Programs, we tailor content to respect cultural beliefs, values and ways of healing, ensuring that support feels not only helpful but safe.
How you can help
You don’t need to be a mental health professional to make a difference. Here are small, practical ways you can help:
Use person-first language: say “a person experiencing suicidal thoughts” instead of “a suicidal person.”
Avoid saying things like “that’s so depressing” casually, it trivialises real distress.
Share accurate information and helplines with friends and colleagues.
Join a Suicide Programs workshop to build your own skills and confidence.
Reach out if you notice someone withdrawing, expressing hopelessness, or acting differently, your words matter.
Let’s talk better
We can’t prevent every suicide, but we can prevent many. And it starts with how we speak.
At Suicide Programs, we’re committed to creating a nation where conversations about mental health and suicide are safe, supportive and stigma-free. Together, by using the right words, showing empathy, and staying informed, we can make a real difference.
Visit www.suicideprograms.com.au to explore training, resources, and upcoming workshops.
If you or someone you know is in crisis, help is available:
Lifeline Australia: 13 11 14
Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467
Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636
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