Content Warning: This post discusses suicide and suicide prevention. If you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text 988 in the U.S. to connect with the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Help is available 24/7.
September is Suicide Prevention & Awareness Month, and one of the most important steps in saving lives is breaking down the myths and misinformation that surround suicide. Suicide and self-harm can be difficult topics to discuss, and the discomfort we feel around this topic often means we do not seek the truth when presented with misinformation. These myths we hear can stop us from getting help, silence those who are struggling, and prevent communities from knowing how to respond.
Here are nine common myths, and the truths that replace them.
The Myths
Myth 1: Talking about suicide puts the idea in someone’s head.
Fact: Talking openly and directly about suicide can reduce risk. It shows that you care and makes it easier for the person to share what they’re going through, creating the opportunity to connect them with support.
Myth 2: People who talk about suicide won’t really do it.
Fact: Most people who die by suicide give some warning signs, such as talking about feeling hopeless, saying life has no purpose, or mentioning death. These comments should always be taken seriously.
Myth 3: Suicide happens without warning.
Fact: While some suicides are impulsive, there are often warning signs: withdrawal from loved ones, dramatic mood changes, increased substance use, giving away possessions, or saying goodbye. Knowing these signs can help us act early and connect someone who is struggling to resources that can help.
Myth 4: Only people with mental illness die by suicide.
Fact: Mental illness can increase the risk, but not everyone who dies by suicide has a diagnosed condition. Situational crises, such as job loss, relationship breakdown, or trauma, can also be significant factors.
Myth 5: Once someone decides to die by suicide, nothing will stop them.
Fact: A suicidal crisis is often temporary. With the right intervention and support, many people recover and go on to live full, meaningful lives.
Myth 6: People who attempt suicide are just seeking attention.
Fact: Any suicide attempt or expression of wanting to die should be taken seriously. It’s not a ploy, it’s a sign of unbearable pain and a need for connection and help.
Myth 7: Suicide only affects certain groups of people.
Fact: Suicide can affect anyone of any age, race, gender, sexual orientation, and background. However, some groups do face a higher risk, such as LGBTQ+ youth, veterans, and Native/Indigenous communities.
Myth 8: Asking someone if they’re thinking about suicide might make them angry.
Fact: Research shows people are often relieved when someone notices their pain and cares enough to ask. It can open the door to honest conversation and life-saving support.
Myth 9: There’s nothing I can do to help.
Fact: You don’t need to be a mental health professional to make a difference. Listening without judgment, asking directly about suicide, removing means when possible, and connecting the person to resources like 988 can all save lives.
What You Can Do
- Start the conversation. Don’t be afraid to ask someone directly if they’re thinking about suicide.
- Know the resources. Call or text 988, or use the chat feature. Trained counselors are available 24/7. Or connect with Synergy’s mental health services to speak to a therapist.
- Stay connected. Check in with friends, family, and coworkers. Sometimes a simple “I’m thinking about you” can be powerful.
Final Thought
Suicide is preventable, but prevention starts with truth. By challenging myths surrounding self-harm and sharing facts, we can make it easier for the people we care about to speak up, seek help, and know they are not alone.
This Suicide Prevention & Awareness Month, and every month, let’s spread facts, not fear.
