The words that we use, or do not use, carry more power than perhaps we might realise. If used in an irresponsible or careless way, they have the very real potential to silence, exclude and dismiss specific people along with their feelings and experiences. When used carefully and respectfully (by clinicians and others) language can let us hear the voices and appreciate the experiences of those who may be underrepresented, bringing them to the fore, making people feel that they are included and they are valued.
Nurses and other health professionals often use language that could exclude others. For example, terms that may be acceptable in the context of a clinical consultation may not be acceptable when discussing these issues with those to whom we offer care and support. They could lead to alienation and prevent people from becoming true partners in the care process, or even result in patients being hesitant in seeking services. Lennon (2021) addressed the use of inclusive language and discussed the importance of the choice of words. It is essential that healthcare providers think critically about how and why specific terms are chosen over others.
With regard to the language that is used concerning suicide, suicide is no longer a crime and, as such, saying that people ‘commit’ suicide should stop—it is loaded with blame and stigma. Suicide is a public health issue. The phrase ‘committed suicide’ is damaging for many people, carrying associations with ‘committed a crime’ or ‘committed a sin’, and can lead people to think of something morally unacceptable or illegal. The key aim is to understand those who experience an intention of taking their own life and to offer compassion as opposed to condemnation. In order to achieve this the nurse and other healthcare providers must use appropriate, non-stigmatising terminology when referring to suicide.
When suicide features in the media, this is often sensationalised and increases the risk to many people who are already vulnerable to suicide. Sensationalised media coverage runs the risk of developing what is known as a cultural script. Elements of reporting can romanticise or glamorise; needlessly detailing the means of death, or depicting the scene of the death. This approach is unsafe reporting and it has been shown to contribute to an increase in death by suicide in the days and weeks following a suicide (Samaritans, 2022). Consciously choosing safe messaging can reduce the suicide exposure effect.
Language matters—words have power. Our choice of words reflects our attitudes but can also influence the attitudes of others; language has the power to shape ideas and feelings in very subtle ways. It can and does have broader implications.
The language that is used regarding sex, gender and sexuality is constantly changing and evolving, it is an area in which people hold strong and differing opinions. The use of language needs to be updated regularly—test the use of language chosen with the people who use your services. How sexuality, gender and gender identity are spoken about is another example of how language can include or marginalise people (Lennon, 2021).
NHS Digital (2022) provides guidance on the use of inclusive language to encourage healthcare providers to write for and about people in ways that are inclusive and respectful. The content of what we write should be factual, neutral and unambiguous, depicting clearly what it is that we mean. The good use of language (verbal, written and non-verbal) that is more inclusive and values-based can lower anxiety, build confidence, educate and help to improve self-care (NHS England, 2018).
We all need to mind our language and reflect on the words that we choose to use and nurses are no exception to this. Taking some time to consider the impact that language can have and thinking about the words that you use can make a difference.