Suicide is a topic in which people often are under-educated. Suicide is a complex public health issue that affects individuals of all ages, backgrounds, and identities. It is often surrounded by stigmas and misconceptions, making open conversation essential for building awareness and preventing more deaths. Here you will find myths and misconceptions as well as the factual information that is prevalent with suicide.
1. Suicide can’t be prevented
Suicide can be prevented in various ways. This includes prevention and protective strategies for both individuals and families. Everyone can help prevent suicide by learning the warning signs, promotions prevention and resilience, and committing to social change (CDC).
2. Talking about suicide increases the chances of someone acting on it
By talking more about suicide, it actually reduces isolation and shame, creates an opportunity to build connections and gain support, facilitates access to help, enables coping strategies, and reduces stigma around the conversation. Mental health professionals agree that having honest, compassionate conversations about suicide can be one of the most effective ways to provide support and open the door to helping people who wish to take their own lives.
3. People who take their own lives are weak
People don’t die of suicide by choice. People who die of suicide experience significant emotional pain and find it difficult to consider different views or see another way out of their situation. Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. It takes a lot of courage to confront one’s emotional pain and reach out for support and guidance. Even though the reasons behind suicide are quite complex, suicide is commonly associated with psychiatric illnesses, such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and substance use (Mayo Clinic).
4. Suicide occurs without any warning signs
There are various warning signs before a suicide attempt. Here are a few common signs:
- Being preoccupied with death, dying, or violence.
- Changing regular routine, including eating or sleeping patterns.
- Increasing use of alcohol or drugs.
- Withdrawing from social contact and wanting to be left alone.
- Saying goodbye to people as if they won’t be seen again.
- Talking about suicide – making statements such as, “I’m going to kill myself” or “I wish I hadn’t been born.”
It’s important to note that warning signs can be subtle or easily misunderstood. Not everyone shows all these signs, which is why listening, observing, and checking in with others matters.
5. Therapy and medications don’t decrease the chances of suicide
Treatment in all forms can and does work. Finding the best treatment can take some time, but the proper treatment can significantly reduce the risk of suicide. Gaining control of your emotions through medication can help an individual better understand what they truly are feeling. Therapy on the other hand enables one to discuss their feelings in a safe, confidential place to talk. Therapy also helps individuals develop coping strategies, work through trauma, and gain a new perspective that can help shift their outlook on life.
In closing, understanding the realities of suicide is not only vital—it’s life-saving. By challenging harmful myths, fostering open conversations, and embracing evidence-based support strategies, we can create a world where fewer lives are lost to suicide. Every person has the power to make a difference, whether by learning the signs, offering a listening ear, or advocating for better mental health resources. Compassion, education, and connection are our strongest tools in preventing suicide. Let’s continue to break the silence and build a more supportive, informed, and empathetic society—one conversation at a time.
If you are looking for additional mental health support for yourself or a loved one, you can contact the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline 24/7 at 988 Text. Find more local resources on our website.