For many people, it is very hard to talk about suicide. But difficult or not, the fact is this: The more we talk about it, the more we can help prevent it.
That includes clearing up common myths about suicide — like when to ask someone about it, and how much of a difference you can make.
We asked an expert for help.
> If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts, call or text the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988, or contact the Crisis Text Line at 741741. Services are free, confidential, and available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year.
Myth 1: “Suicide only affects people diagnosed with mental health conditions.”
Fact: Suicide does not discriminate. It can affect you, your family, friends and colleagues.
People of all backgrounds can experience suicidal thoughts, as suicide is often the result of multiple intersecting factors.
But it can be difficult to know if someone is at risk. The warning signs can be subtle, and someone who is struggling may not always feel comfortable bringing it up on their own.
“Unfortunately, suicidal thoughts and behaviors are still highly stigmatized in society,” points out Marissa Sicley-Rogers, PsyD, well-being manager at Hartford HealthCare’s Well-Being Department. “This reality can make it very difficult for those in distress to feel they can talk about how they’re feeling.”
What to do:
- Learn these risk factors and warning signs.
- If you notice signs someone may be at risk, ask the person directly and compassionately if they’ve been thinking about suicide or hurting themselves.
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Myth 2: “Asking someone about suicide gives them the idea.”
Fact: Asking the question does not increase risk of suicide. Instead, it may reduce it.
“A person in crisis is likely already thinking about suicide, or has thought about it before,” says Dr. Sicley-Rogers. “You can give them a chance to openly express what they’ve been experiencing in a safe conversation.”
In addition to reminding them they’re not alone, it may help them see things in a new light.
What to do:
- Ask the question.
- Listen in a nonjudgmental, caring way.
Myth 3: “People who express suicidal thoughts just want attention.”
Fact: A person’s expression of suicidal thoughts should always be taken seriously.
“People who die by suicide often share their intent with someone else before their death,” says Dr. Sicley-Rogers. “Talking about hurting or killing yourself is a key warning sign.”
What to do:
- Call or text the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988, or contact the Crisis Text Line at 741741.
- You can also go to the nearest Emergency Department.
Myth 4: “If someone really wants to kill themselves, there’s nothing we can do to stop it.”
Fact: Suicide is preventable.
“Warning signs often precede most suicides. Knowing, recognizing and responding to those signs is critical,” says Dr. Sicley-Rogers.
In addition, suicide attempts can be impulsive. So simply putting space and time between a person’s thoughts and their actions can be lifesaving.
What to do:
- Make a note of the above risk factors, warning signs and mental health resources.
- Securely store or remove any firearms or other lethal means.
- Keep the lines of conversation open.
Forget the myths about suicide. Focus on the facts.
One out of every two Americans knows someone who has died by suicide. Every 11 minutes, another life is lost. In the year 2022 alone, one out of every 20 Americans seriously thought about it.
Ignoring these facts will not help them go away. Talking about them will.
“Educating ourselves about suicide can both de-stigmatize the problem, and increase our ability to identify and connect those in need to help,” says Dr. Sicley-Rogers. “Suicide affects all of us. Which means suicide prevention is all of our responsibility.”
