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Suicide Language Guide

Suicide Prevention Language & Terminology

Language matters when we are talking or writing about suicide.

Inappropriate or careless use of language can sensationalise, depersonalise or glorify a death. It can also cause distress to those bereaved by suicide. Always avoid language that criminalises suicide and consider the sensitivities of your audience.

Download Printable Poster

Download Suicide Language Guide Poster (Print friendly Version)
Access Printable Resources

Do Use

  • A suicide
  • Taken his/her/their own life
  • Ended his/her/their own life
  • Died by/death by suicide
  • Suicide attempt/attempted suicide
  • Person at risk of suicide
  • Coroner's conclusion
  • Name of the person who has died
    (or ask those bereaved how they would like their loved one to be referred to)

Don't Use

  • Committed suicide
  • Successful/unsuccessful suicide attempt
  • Failed suicide attempt
  • Completed/uncompleted suicide
  • Cry for help
  • [Name] is suicidal
    (don't define someone as this)
  • Coroner's verdict
  • The body/suicide victim
  • Suicide epidemic/wave/hotspot

Media guidance

Samaritans Media Reporting Guidelines
samaritans.org/about-samaritans/media-guidelines

For support in dealing with the media in relation to a suicide or suspected suicide, contact the Public Health Dorset comms team: phdcomms@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk

Signposting to support

These local and national organisations can help people affected by suicide:

Cruse Bereavement Support:
 Support for all types of bereavement: 0808 808 1677

Samaritans 24/7 helpline: 116 123

Connection 24/7 NHS mental health helpline: 0800 652 0190