Year: 1998 Source: CMAJ. Canadian Medical Association Journal, v.159, no.3, (August 11, 1998), p.239-240 SIEC No: 19990169

This editorial discusses colloquial & professional euphemisms society uses when discussing suicide. The author asserts negative language can harm perceptions of those with depressive illness & become a barrier to suicide prevention. Topics discussed include: stigma & other illnesses, & the negative use of the word “commit” with respect to suicide. The author also discusses changing the use of jargon & language conducive to shame as a means to changing the way suicide is viewed by society.