Re-visiting language and suicide
After much anecdotal evidence, a study on perceptions of the phrases referring to suicide has been published. In this post, I want to offer comment. This post contains arguments which for some people will be controversial.
Continue reading “Re-visiting language and suicide”On reading suicide off text
A few days ago, my Twitter timeline included references to a new initiative aimed at reducing suicide amongst students. One of the projects was described in the media as looking for suicide risk on social media. I think such a project makes very little sense. This post contains quotes from genuine suicide notes.
Continue reading “On reading suicide off text”There be dragons
Some time ago, this tweet appeared in my timeline. It concerns something that has often occupied my thoughts ever since I came to this country. So, it’s time for me to write a little bit about being an Eastern European. This post does not pretend to be comprehensive, it’s just an account of some of my experience.
Continue reading “There be dragons”De-languaging diagnosis (and medicine)
For some time now, I’ve been struck by the ease in which medical diagnosis is rendered in terms language. Doctors seem not to do much more but offer labels. As a linguist, I suppose to I should be happy with this informal Medical Society for Appreciation of Language. Alas, I am not. I think the labelling medic should take a step or two back.
Continue reading “De-languaging diagnosis (and medicine)”