Language shapes how we understand the world and, importantly, how we understand ourselves. In mental health, this carries real weight. The words we choose can open the door to support or quietly reinforce stigma.
One phrase that still appears regularly across conversation, media, and even professional settings is “commit suicide”. While often used without intent, its origins tell a very different story.
A phrase from the past
In Australia, suicide was progressively decriminalised across states and territories during the late 1960s and 1970s. Before that, it was considered a criminal act, and the language reflected this. The word “commit” was commonly associated with crimes.
Although the law has changed, the language has not fully caught up. Today, however, mental health practice recognises suicide as a complex outcome linked to psychological pain, trauma, social factors, and mental illness. In other words, it is not about criminality or wrongdoing.
Why it still shows up
Even in modern mental health services, this phrase continues to appear. Importantly, this is rarely intentional.
Instead, it often comes down to habit. Longstanding language patterns, historical documentation, and media use have all contributed to its persistence. As a result, even experienced clinicians may use it automatically, without recognising the impact it can have.
More than semantics
This is not just about wording. Rather, it speaks to the environment we create. Language used in assessments, case notes, and conversations directly shapes how safe a person feels to open up.
Because of this, the phrase “commit suicide” can unintentionally:
– Suggest blame or moral failing
– Reinforce shame for someone experiencing suicidal thoughts
– Increase distress for families and carers bereaved by suicide
– Create distance between the person and their experience
For someone already navigating distress, these subtle signals matter.
A shift in language
Across Australia, suicide prevention and mental health organisations are encouraging a move toward neutral, non judgemental language. This shift reflects a more compassionate and person centred approach.
Common alternatives include:
– Died by suicide
– Took their own life
– Ended their life
– Lost to suicide
By using this language, we remove the implication of wrongdoing and create space for understanding.
Close to home
For many Recovery Coaches at One Good* Day, this is not just theory. It is lived experience. Supporting people through moments of deep vulnerability requires a strong awareness of how language lands. At the same time, for some coaches, the impact is also deeply personal.
One Recovery Coach shared their experience of supporting someone close to them who was admitted to a mental health hospital after becoming frightened by their own thoughts.
“Experiences like this really highlight how important language is. Making small changes in how we talk about these issues can make it easier for people to reach out and seek help.”
Moments like this reinforce that even small shifts in language can make it easier for someone to speak up.
Why it matters for services
In practice, for mental health and NDIS services, language is part of everyday work. The words used in documentation, policies, and conversations shape culture over time.
Compassionate, person centred language can:
– Reduce stigma and internalised shame
– Support earlier help seeking
– Encourage safer disclosure of suicidal thoughts
– Help families feel supported rather than judged
– Strengthen trust and therapeutic relationships
For Recovery Coaches, this aligns closely with the role itself. Meeting people where they are, without judgement, is at the core of recovery focused support.
Small change, real impact
Updating language might seem like a small step. However, it signals something much bigger.
Over time, the words we use shape how safe people feel within services and communities. Language change alone will not eliminate suicide risk. But importantly, it can make it easier for someone to reach out, feel understood, and accept support.
And sometimes, that first step is everything.
Want to go deeper?
Read more in our previous blog on how the words we choose can shape mental health, stigma, and recovery.
If you need support
If this topic resonates with you or someone you know, support is available.
Lifeline Australia – 13 11 14
Suicide Call Back Service – 1300 659 467
13YARN – 13 92 76
Beyond Blue – 1300 22 4636
1800Respect – 1800 737 732
MensLine Australia – 1300 78 99 78
Full Stop Australia – 1800 385 578
Kids Helpline – 1800 55 1800
If you are in immediate danger, call 000.
Reaching out is a sign of strength. Support is always there when you need it.