Every 11 minutes someone dies by suicide. In that same time period, there are 20 suicide attempts. That’s why it’s so important that we know the warning signs and how to help someone.

We can all help prevent suicide.

Here are some of the common myths surrounding suicide. We encourage you to explore our additional resources on our Suicide Awareness and Prevention page. You can also check out our on-demand webinar.

Myths and Facts

Fact or fiction? Talking about suicide only puts the idea in someone’s head.

Fiction. Research has repeatedly indicated that if asked this question, the suicidal person feels more relief rather than distress. The “secret” is out, if you will. Most people want to talk about their pain.

According to Suicide Prevention Lifeline, evidence shows that providing support services, talking about suicide, reducing access to means of self-harm, and following up with loved ones are just some of the actions we can all take to help others.

Fact or fiction? Suicide happens with some warning.

Fact. Approximately 80% of individuals gave some definite clues of their intention and about 30% showed signs of depression three months prior, and in the older population many visited their primary care physician the month before their death by suicide.

Fact or fiction? The risk remains even when improvement follows a suicide crisis.

Fact. Once someone has suicide ideation, it remains an option in the future. When someone has died by suicide in a family the risk of other family members dying by suicide increases exponentially.

Know the Risk Factors: