i understand believes that one important step to eliminating the stigma of suicide is to change the definition of the word itself. Updating the stigmatizing definition about intentionally taking one’s own life to one about suicide’s role as a terminal side effect of mental illness or pain will open up conversation about mental health and encourage those who are struggling to seek help.
Noun|Sui-cide
1. the intentional taking of one's own life.
2. the act or an instance of taking one's own life voluntarily and intentionally.
Source: Dictionary.com, Merriam-Webster Dictionary
Noun|Sui-cide
1. a side effect of a mental/brain health illness or pain.
2. the result of wanting one’s physical or emotional pain to end.
In this video Vonnie shares her passion about suicide and why changing the definition is an important goal for i understand.
If you’re thinking about suicide, are worried about a friend or loved one, or would like emotional support, the Lifeline network is available 24/7 across the United States.