Mental and Emotional Health: Understanding Depression, Suicide, and Death

Suicide Prevention: Myths vs. Facts

Man and woman in a waiting room comforting each other
Suicide causes pain to family and friends.

think and clickThink and Click: Myth and Fact

There are many myths about suicide. Distinguishing between myth and fact can help you help someone who may be in danger of committing suicide. Read the myths below and think of the facts that dispel the myths. Check the facts by clicking on the myths.

Myths about suicide

Think and Click MYTH: Young people who talk about suicide never attempt or commit suicide.

FACT: Talking about suicide can be a plea for help and can be a late sign in the progression toward a suicide attempt.

Think and Click MYTH: Attempted or completed suicides happen without warning.

FACT: The survivors of a suicide often say that they had hidden their intention; however it is likely that the intention was not recognized. Some warning signs include:
  • Preoccupation with themes of death or expressing suicidal thoughts
  • Giving away of prized possessions, making a will or other final arrangements
  • Withdrawal from friends/family or other major behavioral changes
  • Dropping out of group activities
  • Frequent irritability or unexplained crying
  • Lingering expressions of unworthiness or failure
  • Lack of interest in the future

Think and Click MYTH: The only effective intervention for suicide comes from professional psychotherapists with extensive experience in this area.
FACT: All people who interact with suicidal people can help them by way of emotional support and encouragement.

Think and Click MYTH: People who threaten suicide are just seeking attention.

FACT: All suicide attempts must be treated as though the person has the intent to die. Do not dismiss a suicide attempt as simply being an attention-gaining device. The attention that they get may well save their lives.

Think and Click MYTH: Talking about suicide or asking someone if he/she feels suicidal will encourage suicide attempts.
FACT: Talking about suicide provides the opportunity for communication. The first step in encouraging a suicidal person to live comes from talking about feelings. However, talking about suicide should be carefully managed and reported to an adult.