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Suicide ranks among the first ten, causes of death in North America. This ranking may be even higher, but not all real suicides are identified as such. Despite the extent and seriousness of the problem, little research has been done in this field recently. This new research has brought to light many facts about suicide and has dispelled many popular beliefs. Below are some of the prevalent Myths and some of the facts.
Myth
Suicide happens without warning.
Fact
Studies have revealed that 8 out of 10 suicidal people give many clues and warnings regarding their intentions. Suicide threats must be taken seriously.
Myth
People who talk about suicide don't commit suicide.
Fact
On the contrary, a suicidal person almost always indicates her intent either directly or indirectly. Talking about it is one way in which the suicidal person notifies you that she is seriously considering committing suicide.
Myth
People who say they are going to hurt or kill themselves are just faking - they just want attention.
Fact
Every suicidal person requires attention, and uses all psychological devices possible to meet her needs. If these devices are ignored or denied, despair may become overwhelming. In denying or ignoring her real needs, one is reinforcing the necessity for dramatic measures
Myth
Improvement following a severe depression means the suicide risk is over.
Fact
Many suicides of depressed people occur within about 3 months following the beginning of improvement when the suicidal individual has the energy to act on previously made suicide plans. There is a need for vigilance during this period
Myth
She made a suicide attempt before, so she won't try again.
Fact
Four out of five people who die by suicide have made at least one previous attempt. A later attempt is often more serious or lethal
Myth
Suicidal people are fully intent on dying. or "Why stop them, after all, that have the right to make this decision.
Fact
Most suicidal people are ambivalent about living or dying. They "gamble with death" not wanting to go on the way they are, yet not totally desiring death. They think in terms of permanently ending their troubles, rather than their life
Myth
Suicides are most prevalent among the poor.
Fact
It is common among all levels of society
Myth
Suicide is inherited and "runs in the family".
Fact
Suicide does not run in the family. It is an individual matter and can be prevented. However, the suicide of a family member can have a profound influence upon others in the family
Myth
She isn't the type to commit suicide.
Fact
There is no suicidal type. Suicide is very democratic and is represented proportionately among all levels of society, all age groups, and all occupations
Myth
A deeply religious person wouldn't kill herself.
Fact
Ministers, rabbis, and priests have taken their own lives. Devoutness, or orthodoxy in any faith will not deter a person from committing suicide when overwhelmed by feelings or events
Myth
All suicidal people are mentally ill.
Fact
Many suicide notes indicate that although the suicidal person is extremely unhappy, she/he is not necessarily mentally ill. Her/his overpowering unhappiness may be the result of a long and painful illness, an emotional upset or the loss of a loved one
Myth
If you talk about suicide, you'll encourage people to do it, or "Never talk about it and it won't happen."
Fact
The opposite is true. While suicide was a taboo subject of conversation, many suicides occurred
Fact
Discussion will not push someone over the edge
