10 Common Myths and Misconceptions People Have About Suicide

Content Warning: Mentions of suicide, self-harm, mental illnesses, and many more. Please do not continue reading if you are easily triggered.

Suicide is associated with several stigmas and stereotypes, making it difficult for most people to recognize and understand. Economic, religious, and social biases aggravate the anguish of those who are already suffering from acute distress or mental illness. Fortunately, suicide can be prevented. It's therefore important to raise awareness and acknowledge our part in helping to prevent it.

Below, I've debunked 10 common myths and misconceptions people have about suicide.

Suicide is primarily a problem for people who have a mental health condition

False. Suicidal thoughts do not impact everyone with mental illness, and not everyone who attempts or dies by suicide has a mental illness.

Suicidal thoughts and attempts can be triggered by relationship issues, as well as other life pressures such as criminal/legal matters, persecution, eviction/loss of home, death of a loved one, a terrible or debilitating illness, trauma, sexual abuse, rejection, and recent or impending disasters. With that said, it can affect anyone, regardless of whether or not they have a diagnosed mental health condition.

People who talk about suicide usually don't intend to do it; they're just looking for attention

False. Research suggests that up to 75% of people who commit suicide do or say something to signal their mental condition and intentions before they act. Many people who are thinking about suicide are suffering from severe anxiety, depression, and hopelessness. So, if a person has to threaten to kill themselves or commit suicide, it is not because they want attention; it is because they no longer want to live the life they have and may believe that death is their only option.

If someone is determined to take his or her own life there is nothing you or I can do about it

False. Suicidal crises or suicidal impulses can be momentary. This is why, in a time of crisis, both immediate assistance and appropriate therapy/counseling are essential to prevent suicide.

Someone who has "recovered" from a suicide attempt will remain suicidal and might try it again

False. As previously stated, the increased suicidal risk is most often temporary and situational. Suicidal thoughts may resurface now and then, but they are not permanent.

Having a crisis or safety plan is thus ideal and practical for someone who has previously attempted suicide or has suicidal thoughts. Your safety plan will remind you of the reasons to live and connect you with people and services that can assist you during difficult times, giving you some perspective in the event that you relapse or become unwell.

People who self-harm is suicidal

False. Self-harm can occur without suicidal ideation. Self-harm is often used as a coping mechanism for dealing with emotions and/or trauma. It is more of a temporary relief rather than a permanent plan to end one’s life. It should be noted, however, that people who self-harm are more likely to commit suicide. It should still be taken seriously to prevent future suicide attempts.

Suicide is not a risk for someone who has their act together

False. Suicide is a worldwide public health problem that affects people from all socioeconomic backgrounds. Therefore it can affect people of all ages, races, genders, religions, and more. A person might appear to be okay but they may be struggling on the inside. Celebrities and those with greater wealth are even affected.

Nobody is completely immune to mental health conditions.

People who commit suicide are those who refused to seek help

False. Before attempting suicide, many people seek aid. According to studies, more than half of suicide victims sought medical care in the six months leading up to their deaths.

Most suicides happen suddenly without warning

False. The majority of people who are suicidal show indicators of desire and are preceded by warnings. People may express it verbally by talking about death or suicide, or by behaving out in extreme ways, such as having mood swings, withdrawing from social situations, or abusing alcohol/drugs.

Although it may appear unexpected to friends and family, people who commit suicide have most likely fought a long and difficult battle. It's critical to become aware of and understand some of the most prevalent warning signs and risk factors to prevent suicide

In my next blog post, I'll go over the steps and strategies for better advocating for this cause, as well as detailed information on warning signs and other concerns.

Suicide victims are self-centered, weak-willed, and take the easiest way out

False. Suicide is committed by people who want to end their misery. Suicidal ideation is not something they choose; rather, it is a severe mental health symptom caused by a stressful life or a mental illness. They frequently believe that they are a burden to their loved ones and that the world would be a better place if they did not exist.

Talking about suicide may encourage the idea

False. Many people are afraid to speak out about suicide because of the widespread stigma attached to it. Initiating the conversation about suicide does not encourage the idea; rather, it helps to reduce the stigma by allowing them to reconsider their decision and seek help. Talking about suicide would then encourage them to open up about their feelings, and through that, we can offer our support.

Debunking these myths and misconceptions will help people view suicide from a different perspective—hopefully with compassion and understanding. We can help prevent suicide by offering help and support during a person’s time of need, as well as openly discussing their situation.

It's never too late to get help.

Recovery is possible!

IF YOU OR SOMEONE YOU KNOW IS AT IMMEDIATE RISK OF SELF-HARM OR SUICIDE, PLEASE CLICK HERE.

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References:

Fuller, Kristen. “5 Common Myths about SUICIDE DEBUNKED.” NAMI, 3 Sept. 2020, www.nami.org/Blogs/NAMI-Blog/September-2020/5-Common-Myths-About-Suicide-Debunked

“Preventing Suicide: A Global Imperative Myths.” World Health Organization.

“Myths about Suicide.” Active Minds, 13 Jan. 2021, www.activeminds.org/blog/myths-about-suicide/.

Fiorella, Sam. “Common Misconceptions about Suicide.” The Friendship Bench, 27 Apr. 2015, www.thefriendshipbench.org/common-misconceptions-about-suicide/

“11 Common Myths ABOUT Self-Harm: The Recovery Village.” Edited by Jonathan Strum, The Recovery Village Drug and Alcohol Rehab, The Recovery Village Drug and Alcohol Rehab, 14 Apr. 2021, www.therecoveryvillage.com/mental-health/self-harm/self-harm-myths/.

“Suicide Myths & Facts.” Winneshiek Medical Center, www.winmedical.org/suicide-prevention-resources/suicide-myths-and-facts/.

“Myth Busting.” Everymind, www.everymind.org.au/suicide-prevention/understanding-suicide/messaging

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