Words Jayeta Biswas
NEW DELHI (India CSR): Rape, fraud, and murder are crimes that are committed—but suicide is not. In India, suicide was decriminalized under the Mental Healthcare Act of 2017. As someone who has lost a loved one to suicide, hearing the phrase “committed suicide” feels deeply painful—implying that the person committed a crime when, in reality, all they wanted was help. On November 25, 2022, I lost my brother, Dr. Jayanta Biswas. When the autopsy report confirmed the cause of death, I shared the news, saying, “He committed suicide.” At the time, I didn’t fully grasp the impact of those words. Only later, through suicide prevention training, did I realize how this language perpetuates stigma and deters people from seeking and offering help. Though suicide has been decriminalized, the label persists. It feels as out of place as saying someone was “killed by cancer” or “a victim of old age.” This article aims to emphasize how adopting the term “died by suicide” can help shift societal attitudes and, ultimately, save lives.
Language Shapes Perception
While thoughts shape language, language also shapes thoughts. How can society reframe suicide as a public health concern rather than a crime if we continue to cling to outdated terminology? Language reflects and reinforces our collective mindset. Although a few in the mental health domain recognize the significance of careful word choice, the misuse continues. To my dismay, such language was even used by the chief guest at a recent mental health festival in Bangalore. Despite prestigious titles, the expression “committed suicide” remains common in 2024, whether in parliamentary speeches, media or global forums led by influential figures. This reveals a glaring gap: suicide is still not taken seriously in India. It lacks both public education and responsible media coverage.
The Harm of Sensationalized Content
Live footage of individuals’ final moments circulates on social media, causing further harm. Sharing such content shows a lack of awareness of its impact. Similarly, after a suicide loss, dark images are often posted—something we wouldn’t do for other causes of death. Would we share images of hair loss in an obituary for someone who passed away from cancer? That would be mean and disrespectful to the life they lived. The nature of death should never overshadow the beauty of someone’s life.
Media Responsibility and the Werther Effect
The WHO’s guidelines for media coverage of suicide caution against using photographs, videos, or audio recordings, detailing methods or locations, or oversimplifying the reasons for a suicide. Unfortunately, adherence to these protocols remains limited, leading to the Werther Effect—a phenomenon where sensationalized or high-profile portrayals of suicide result in an increase in similar cases. The lack of awareness around this issue compounds the challenge of addressing suicide, a wicked problem that requires careful consideration and action.
Finding Strength in the Darkest Times
Last year, I endured the darkest time of my life, struggling to find normalcy after losing my brother. Professional support failed to help, but the unwavering patience and care of my close circle anchored me through the storm. They weren’t experts in postvention, but their genuine compassion and open-mindedness became my saving grace. A common Bengali phrase, “Haal chhero na, Bondhu” (“Don’t give up, my friend”), is often used in discussions about suicide, but I’m grateful none of my friends said it. They understood that my struggle wasn’t about wanting to give up; it was about fighting circumstances beyond my control. Misguided statements stem from the misconception that those struggling simply want to quit, when the truth is far more nuanced.
A Call for Compassionate Change
Shifting the focus from what someone should do to what we can do for them has the power to transform lives. Language, as a starting point, can reshape society’s view of suicide. Some may argue that this is insignificant, but it’s like the first step in building a garden—preparing the soil by removing weeds. Unless the weeds are removed, simply watering the garden won’t ensure it blooms. Small actions, such as upgrading our vocabulary, can pave the way toward a brighter, more compassionate future. Can we, as a society, begin with a simple but profound shift? Is it too much to ask to replace “committed suicide” with “died by suicide”—words that reflect not a criminal act, but a loss to be mourned, a life to be remembered?
About the Author
Jayeta Biswas, Suicide Prevention Ambassador, SAP
(India CSR)
