Vision: End Silence; End Suicide

ARCSP believes that suicide is a highly stigmatized topic in our culture and in our community. As a result, people tend to avoid speaking about it when it might be appropriate to do so. Such a response can be understood as a kind of Recoiling Silence. This two-word phrase describes a withdrawing from the topic of suicide socially as well as moving away from it emotionally. It’s all about avoiding the issue. Recoiling Silence exists within families; within organizations; within sport teams; within schools; within churches and within broader community networks. Suicide is not a “normal” act. Therefore, the thinking goes, it should only be whispered. Not speaking on suicide is a silent killer. 

Mission: Leading the Discussion

ARCSP believes that openly discussing the topic of suicide lowers the stigma surrounding the issue and brings health to those suffering with suicidal related concerns. Speaking on suicide is a life-saving act. Discussing suicide, however, needs to be done in a safe manner. Personal stories related to suicide can be powerful, preventative factors. But phrases like “commit suicide” or “succeeded in suicide” are pejorative where “died by suicide” is safe. National best practices regarding safe messaging on suicide also means avoiding the use of graphic depictions of means. Including how an individual chose to end his/her life can trigger those in the audience by causing harmful emotional flooding. Speaking safely on suicide can save lives.