Suicide is a topic many people do not want to address. Suicide is tragic and difficult for most of us to understand. For that reason, there is a lot of misinformation out there. The best way we can all help to prevent suicide is by being knoweldgable about it. Check out these myths and facts about suicide.
MYTH: Talking about suicide will put the idea in someone’s head.
TRUTH: By asking someone if they feel suicidal, you are providing them with a safe opportunity to express their feelings and to have an ally in seeking help.
MYTH: Suicide is spontaneous and those who talk about it won’t kill themselves.
TRUTH: The vast majority of people who die by suicide express the desire to a loved one or show warning signs.
MYTH: Once someone makes up their mind to kill themselves, there is nothing you can do.
TRUTH: Although suicidal thoughts are powerful, they can be temporary. Depression is the leading risk factor for suicide and can be successfully treated.
MYTH: Teenagers are the age group at the greatest risk of attempting suicide.
TRUTH: The elderly are more likely to attempt suicide than any other age group. In fact, white men older than 85 have the highest rate of suicide.
MYTH: Suicides peak around the holidays.
TRUTH: Actually, researchers are not sure why, but April, June, and July have the highest rates of suicide.
MYTH: People complete suicide for a specific reason.
FACT: 90% of all people who die by suicide have a diagnosable and treatable psychiatric disorder.
