Every September 10th we commemorate World Suicide Prevention Day. There are many myths surrounding suicide. One of them is that if we talk about this social issue, suicides will increase. What we need to understand is that talking about it from the standpoint of prevention and education helps to prevent it. Therefore, dialogue is essential. At The Better Normal, we believe it is of utmost importance to have spaces where we can express ourselves, learn, and reflect on the issue of suicide. That’s why today, we’re sharing 7 common myths about suicide.
Discussions of suicide can be overwhelming; if you are struggling and would like to seek further support, we encourage you to visit Find A Helpline, where you can connect to helpline support near you.
Why Should We Talk About Suicide?
Talking about suicide is the first step to prevent it. When we talk about how we feel, we open a door. We allow others to speak up. We let them know it’s ok to talk about our emotions. And we let them know that they are not alone. It’s important to leave behind the stigma and focus on the importance of helping others. We know it’s not easy to talk about how we feel. But it’s essential.
Mental health matters. Although we may think that our physical health needs more attention, we shouldn’t forget about our spiritual and mental health as well. When was the last time you asked yourself “How am I?”? Or “Why am I feeling like this?”? Do you take a moment every day to think about how you feel? When was the last time you asked for help? Let’s make a difference! Let’s talk about mental health!
7 Common Myths About Suicide Debunked
Here are some of the most common myths and facts about suicide according to the National Alliance of Mental Illness:
1. Myth: Suicide only affects individuals with a mental health condition.
Fact: Many individuals with mental illness are not affected by suicidal thoughts and not all people who attempt or die by suicide have mental illness. Relationship problems and other life stressors such as criminal/legal matters, persecution, eviction/loss of home, death of a loved one, a devastating or debilitating illness, trauma, sexual abuse, rejection, and recent or impending crises are also associated with suicidal thoughts and attempts.
2. Myth: Once an individual is suicidal, he or she will always remain suicidal.
Fact: Active suicidal ideation is often short-term and situation-specific. Studies have shown that approximately 54% of individuals who have died by suicide did not have a diagnosable mental health disorder. And for those with mental illness, the proper treatment can help to reduce symptoms.
The act of suicide is often an attempt to control deep, painful emotions and thoughts an individual is experiencing. Once these thoughts dissipate, so will the suicidal ideation. While suicidal thoughts can return, they are not permanent. An individual with suicidal thoughts and attempts can live a long, successful life.
5. Myth: Most suicides happen suddenly without warning.
Fact: Warning signs—verbally or behaviorally—precede most suicides. Therefore, it’s important to learn and understand the warnings signs associated with suicide. Many individuals who are suicidal may only show warning signs to those closest to them. These loved ones may not recognize what’s going on, which is how it may seem like the suicide was sudden or without warning.
6. Myth: People who die by suicide are selfish and take the easy way out.
Fact: Typically, people do not die by suicide because they do not want to live—people die by suicide because they want to end their suffering. These individuals are suffering so deeply that they feel helpless and hopeless. Individuals who experience suicidal ideations do not do so by choice. They are not simply, “thinking of themselves,” but rather they are going through a very serious mental health symptom due to either mental illness or a difficult life situation.
7. Myth: Talking about suicide will lead to and encourage suicide.
Fact: There is a widespread stigma associated with suicide and as a result, many people are afraid to speak about it. Talking about suicide not only reduces the stigma, but also allows individuals to seek help, rethink their opinions and share their story with others. We all need to talk more about suicide.
What Can I Do?
If someone is depressed, it takes tremendous strength to talk about it and get help. Increasing our acceptance and showing encouragement to those who take this step can go a long way. Support is crucial if you or a loved one is depressed or contemplating suicide. Please know that there is help. Depression is treatable and many effective treatment options will meet needs.
If you or a loved one need immediate help due to having suicidal thoughts, call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988. Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room if there is an immediate safety concern.
Conclusion: Speak Up!
We are important. We are part of this society and we need to speak up. Let’s talk about mental health at home, at work, and with friends! Keeping our thoughts to ourselves won’t solve anything. We need to know that there’s always someone there. It can be a hug, a kind word, or even just a moment of silence together. You can make a difference. You can make someone feel less lonely. We can all change someone’s life.
And remember, you’re not alone.
