Myths and Facts about Suicide

Fact: There is no single cause of suicide. Having a mental health problem can increase your risk of suicide, but many factors and circumstances can contribute to someone’s thoughts of ending their life. Things like loss, addictions, trauma, depression, serious physical illness and major life changes can make some people feel overwhelmed and unable to cope. It isn’t necessarily the nature of the loss or stress that makes someone want to end their life — it’s the feeling that these things are unbearable. Talking to someone about what you are going through can help ease that pain. If you are feeling like this, remember you can reach out to us any time.

Fact: Even trained professionals cannot always predict who will end their life. It is never anyone’s fault for “missing” the flags, or failing to predict and prevent suicide. However, there are signs that someone may be thinking about suicide, and we can always open a conversation.

Fact: Talking about suicide does not make someone more suicidal. Asking someone if they have been thinking about suicide can open up the conversation and help them share their feelings. They may well be glad that you asked.

Fact: Suicide is not a moral weakness or a character flaw. It is not selfish or a cry for attention. These ideas are all part of the stigma that surrounds suicide. Stigma can cause someone who is thinking about suicide to believe that their feelings are something to be ashamed of. It is dangerous and can stop people from seeking help. That is why it’s so important to talk about suicide, so we can break down the shame and stigma that surrounds it.

Fact: Most people who attempt suicide don’t necessarily want to die, but they do want to end their emotional pain. They may be overcome with hopelessness and unable to see another way out of their situation. They may have lost their sense of connection to the people around them. But thoughts of suicide can pass, and people who have thought about or attempted suicide in the past can go on to live full and rich lives when they receive the support they need.