Suicide is one of the most difficult topics to talk about, but avoiding it doesn’t make it go away.
According to the Office for National Statistics, there were 6,069 suicides recorded in England and Wales in 2023, which was the highest rate since 1999. In other words, things are getting worse, not better. For many, it feels too heavy, too awkward, or too personal to bring up this topic, but silence often makes things worse. However, talking about suicide openly and without judgement can save lives, break down stigma, and offer real support to those who need it most. Here are just some of the reasons why these conversations are necessary, even when they feel uncomfortable.
1. Silence only increases shame.
When suicide is treated as a forbidden topic, it makes those struggling feel even more isolated. They may already believe that their feelings are too much for other people to handle, and avoiding the conversation only reinforces that idea. Speaking openly about suicide removes the shame attached to it. It sends the message that no one has to struggle alone, and that these feelings are real and valid, not something to be hidden.
2. It can prevent a crisis from escalating.
Many people are scared that bringing up suicide will “put the idea” into someone’s head, but research shows the opposite is true. Talking about it provides an opportunity for someone to express their feelings and get help before things reach a breaking point. Sometimes, just knowing that someone is willing to listen and take them seriously can make all the difference for a person who feels hopeless.
3. Suicide is more common than people realise.
Many people assume suicide is rare, but it’s more common than we think. It affects people of all backgrounds, ages, and experiences, yet it’s often treated like something that only happens to “other people.” By talking about it, we acknowledge that it’s a widespread issue, not just an isolated tragedy. This helps create a culture where people feel safer reaching out for help instead of suffering in silence.
4. It helps dismantle dangerous myths.
There are many misconceptions about suicide — that it’s selfish, that only weak people struggle with it, or that those who talk about it are just looking for attention. These beliefs only add to the stigma and make it harder for people to ask for help.
By having open, honest conversations, we can correct these harmful ideas and replace them with understanding and compassion. Suicide is not a choice people make lightly, and treating it with empathy rather than judgement makes it easier for those struggling to get the support they need.
5. It encourages people to get help sooner.
When suicide is never discussed, people who are struggling may not even realise that help is available. They might believe no one would understand, or that their pain isn’t serious enough to reach out. Normalising conversations about suicide helps people recognise when they need help and feel less afraid to ask for it. It also makes it easier for friends and family to step in before a situation becomes a crisis.
6. It supports those who have lost someone.
Losing a loved one to suicide is an incredibly painful experience, yet many people don’t talk about it because they don’t know what to say. This can leave grieving families and friends feeling even more alone. Opening up the conversation allows those affected by suicide to share their feelings, find support, and heal without fear of judgement. No one should have to suffer in silence after losing someone they love.
7. It makes it easier to recognise warning signs.
When suicide isn’t talked about, many people don’t know what signs to look for in themselves or other people. Subtle changes in behaviour, withdrawal, or even sudden mood improvements can be indicators that someone is struggling. The more we talk about suicide, the more aware we become of these warning signs. This knowledge can help friends, family, and communities intervene before it’s too late.
8. It removes the fear of saying the wrong thing.
Many people avoid talking about suicide because they’re afraid of saying the wrong thing, but avoiding the conversation entirely is often more harmful than speaking imperfectly. By normalising discussions about mental health, we create a space where people feel safer asking questions, offering support, and learning how to talk about suicide with care and sensitivity.
9. It changes the focus from blame to support.
When suicide is met with judgement instead of understanding, it prevents people from asking for help. They’re afraid of being blamed, criticised, or seen as weak, which only deepens their isolation. Talking about suicide in a supportive way removes that fear. It allows people to share their feelings without worrying about being misunderstood or shamed, making it easier to reach out before it’s too late.
10. It can save lives.
At its core, talking about suicide isn’t just about awareness — it’s about saving lives. When people feel seen, heard, and supported, they’re more likely to reach out for help. A single conversation can be the difference between someone feeling completely alone and someone realising that help is available. By choosing to talk about suicide, even when it’s uncomfortable, we create a world where no one has to suffer in silence.
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, contact Samaritans 24 hours a day, 365 days a year at 116 123.
