Exploring the myths and facts of suicide

Since initially writing a blog last September on why people commit suicide, I wanted to explore this difficult issue once again.

An average of 1 person every 16.1 minutes has killed themselves. There are more suicides than homicides. Each suicide intimately affects 6 other people. These are some of the staggering statistics taken from American Association of Suicidology 2005 statistics .

It is often hard to distinguish what is fact from fiction, especially with the stigmas that exist in our society. Here are some of the myths and explanation of facts:

Myth: Suicidal people just want to die
Fact: Most of the time, suicidal people are torn between wanting to die and wanting to live. Most want to live, but they want to stop the great psychological or emotional pain they are experiencing. They feel the only way to stop this excruciating pain is to take their own life.

Myth: People who commit suicide do not warn others
Fact: Eight out of every ten people give clues to their intentions. They leave numerous clues and warnings to others, although clues may be non-verbal or difficult to detect.

Myth: People who talk about suicide are only trying to get attention
Fact: Few commit suicide without first letting someone know how they feel. They are seeking help.

Myth: Don’t mention suicide to someone who’s showing signs of depression. It will implant the idea in their minds and they will act on it.
Fact: Many depressed people have already considered suicide as an option. Discussing it openly helps the suicidal person sort through the problems and generally provides a sense of relief and understanding.

Other resources that distinguish myths and facts:

• Canadian Mental Health Association

• Value Options

• Dare to Live

• Yellow Ribbon Program

• Mental Health Library

Tomorrow’s blog will continue on this topic and be on identifying risk factors of suicide and how to help a suicidal person.