Common Myths About Suicide

When suicide is discussed on this blog, the discussion usually concerns the controversy surrounding assisted suicide.  Information about unassisted suicide, however, could also be useful in an field largely focused on death.  

The following are ten myths about suicide, which are detailed and dispelled in The X-Ray Vision-aries Blog, 10 Common Myths About Suicide:

1. Suicide is just a ploy for attention – ignoring threats will make them go away.
2. Suicidal people suffer from character weakness or psychosis.
3. Suicide attempt survivors won’t try again.
4. Talking to a suicidal person about suicide will make the suicidal urge worse. 
5. There are no warnings or prevention of suicide.
6. It’s impossible to talk down a suicidal person who wants to die.
7. The risk of suicide lowers when the emotional state improves.
8. Unsuccessful suicide means the person didn’t really want to die.
9. Saying “Cheer Up” helps a suicidal person.
10. Suicidal thoughts need to be kept secret.