In today’s hyperconnected world, where words travel fast and conversations often unfold online, the language we use to talk about suicide matters more than ever—especially when young people are involved. Language has the power to shape attitudes, influence behaviour, and either reduce or reinforce stigma. For youth navigating emotional challenges, the words they hear—or don’t hear—can be life-changing. 

The Impact of Suicide on Young People 

Suicide is the second leading cause of death among youth globally. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 73% of suicides occur in low- and middle-income countries, with adolescents and young adults among the most vulnerable. Factors such as cyberbullying, academic pressure, family issues, mental health disorders, and social isolation can all contribute to suicidal ideation.  

Despite the prevalence of mental health challenges, many young people are reluctant to seek help—often due to fear of being judged, misunderstood, or dismissed. The stigma surrounding suicide plays a significant role in that hesitation, and much of that stigma is perpetuated through language. 

Words That Harm and Words That Heal 

Certain phrases—though common—can carry judgmental undertones that worsen feelings of shame or guilt. For example: 

  • “Committed suicide” implies a crime or sin, rooted in outdated beliefs when suicide was illegal in many countries. 
  • “Failed attempt” or “successful suicide” frame death or survival in inappropriate terms. 
  • “Attention-seeking” when referring to a distressed youth minimizes their pain and dismisses their call for help. 

Instead, experts and advocates recommend more compassionate, non-stigmatizing language such as: 

Instead of  Say 
Committed suicide  Died by suicide 
Attempted suicide  Survived a suicide attempt 
Attention-seeking  Expressing distress / Needing support 
Suicide victim  Person who died by suicide 

By using language that is neutral and empathetic, we create an environment where young people feel safer talking about their struggles and more likely to seek help without fear of shame. 

Why Language Matters to Youth 

Young people are highly impressionable. They absorb cues from parents, educators, peers, and social media. When mental health issues are treated as taboo or when suicide is discussed with harsh or dismissive language, it reinforces the idea that struggling is something to hide. 

A youth who hears, “She was just being dramatic,” or “He only did it for attention,” may internalize the message that reaching out for help is pointless—or worse, shameful. This silence and stigma can become a dangerous barrier between a young person and the support they need.  

On the other hand, compassionate language fosters understanding. A teacher who says, “Let’s check in with them—they seem overwhelmed,” or a peer who responds, “I’m here if you need to talk,” helps create a culture of care and trust.  

What Adults Can Do 

Parents, educators, and community leaders all have a role to play in modeling the right language. Here’s how to support youth through mindful communication: 

  • Talk openly about mental health. Normalize conversations around emotional well-being in schools, homes, and community programs. 
  • Use inclusive, non-judgmental language. Speak in a way that communicates care and respect. 
  • Educate others. Correct harmful language when you hear it and explain why it matters. 
  • Encourage help-seeking. Make youth aware of support services and create spaces where they feel safe asking for help. 
  • Leverage technology for early intervention. onGuard, Netsweeper’s Digital Safety Monitoring technology helps protect students by identifying concerning patterns of online behaviour. When students search for or engage with keywords and phrases related to suicide, self-harm, or emotional distress, the platform can flag these signals in real time—giving school staff and administrators a valuable opportunity to intervene early and connect students with the help they need. 

Moving Forward with Empathy 

Breaking the stigma around suicide starts with the words we use. For young people, every conversation can be an opportunity to either open a door or close one. As adults and allies, our responsibility is to ensure we open more doors—with compassion, respect, and language that affirms the value of every life.  

At Netsweeper, we believe in building safer digital environments where youth are protected and supported. Through responsible technology and ongoing education, we help schools and organizations identify online risk signals and promote student well-being. Because when young people feel safe—in the classroom, online, and in conversation—they’re more likely to reach out, speak up, and choose life. 

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