Words Matter - How to Talk About Suicide (Article)

Increased awareness of mental health issues enhances the likelihood of assisting individuals facing challenges related to mental illnesses. Yet many individuals feel uncertain about how to navigate discussions surrounding suicide or mental health due to the sensitivity and complexity of these topics. The  Canadian Association for Mental Health's article, Words Matter, was written to help people feel more comfortable discussing mental health. Choosing the right words and phrases can have an empowering, positive effect and avoid stigmatization. This article provides helpful guidelines to help people navigate these crucial—and potentially life-saving—conversations.

Read the Article
quotesArtboard 1 copy 2

Learning how to talk about suicide in a hopeful, respectful way has the power to save lives.

Toolkit for People Who Have Been Impacted by a Suicide Attempt


Feeling overwhelmed, suicidal, need someone to listen

or need to find out how you can help someone you care about?

Please see Crisis Services

Related Posts

A red maple leaf.
May 2, 2025
When tragedy strikes, informed, compassionate leadership can make all the difference. The “Postvention Guide for CAF Leadership” is a comprehensive resource from the Department of National Defence, designed to help Canadian Armed Forces leaders respond effectively after a suicide or suicide attempt within their ranks.
A professional woman talking to a military man in a meeting room.
May 2, 2025
“Postvention Practices for Military Settings” is a Short Takes on Suicide Prevention podcast episode featuring Kim Ruocco (Vice President of T.A.P.S.) and Dr. Maggie Guglielmi (Stratton VAMC).
Two women and a man talking on phones in a call centre.
May 2, 2025
Are you looking to strengthen your crisis center’s response after a suicide? The podcast episode “Postvention Practices for Crisis Centers” from the Short Takes on Suicide Prevention series is a valuable resource.
Show More

Related Posts

A red maple leaf.
May 2, 2025
When tragedy strikes, informed, compassionate leadership can make all the difference. The “Postvention Guide for CAF Leadership” is a comprehensive resource from the Department of National Defence, designed to help Canadian Armed Forces leaders respond effectively after a suicide or suicide attempt within their ranks.
A professional woman talking to a military man in a meeting room.
May 2, 2025
“Postvention Practices for Military Settings” is a Short Takes on Suicide Prevention podcast episode featuring Kim Ruocco (Vice President of T.A.P.S.) and Dr. Maggie Guglielmi (Stratton VAMC).
Two women and a man talking on phones in a call centre.
May 2, 2025
Are you looking to strengthen your crisis center’s response after a suicide? The podcast episode “Postvention Practices for Crisis Centers” from the Short Takes on Suicide Prevention series is a valuable resource.
Show More