What You Need To Know About Suicide

Myths About Suicide

1. People Who Are Suicidal Remain Suicidal

A high suicide risk is usually short-term and determined by the situation. While it is certainly possible for suicidal thoughts to remain, they aren’t permanent and people who have health with suicidal thoughts in the part can, and do, go on to live long and satisfied lives.

2. Talking About Suicide Can Be Seen As Encouragement

People are often worried that by talking to someone about their suicidal thoughts they will somehow encourage them to commit suicide. That is not true. A concerned loved one cannot make someone suicidal by showing concern, and in fact, giving someone an opportunity to talk through their feelings may help to reduce their suicide risk.

3. Only People With Mental Health Conditions Are Suicidal

While suicidal behaviour does indicate a deep unhappiness within an individual, it’s not necessarily related to a specific mental health condition. People living with conditions like anxiety and depression might also deal with suicidal thoughts, but they certainly don’t impact all people. In the same thread, not all people who take their own lives have struggled with mental health conditions.

4. Someone Suicidal Wants To Die

It is a misconception that suicidal people are intent on dying. In many cases, people who are suicidal are ambivalent about living and dying, often taking suicidal action impulsively. When people are suicidal, their thoughts are not lucid or collected, which can stop them from seeing the bigger picture. Accessing the right kind of emotional support can prevent a suicide.

5. People Who Talk About Suicide Won’t Do It

There’s a commonly held belief that people who talk about their suicidal thoughts are just looking for attention, and will never actually follow through. This is not true. People who talk about suicide are often reaching out for help or support. They often feel that there is no other option, and talking about it gives you an opportunity to intervene for their benefit.

Always Remember

If a person is planning on taking their own life, and has admitted as much, it’s important that they be referred to someone who can help them immediately. They shouldn’t be left alone unless you’re concerned for your own safety.

In cases where the situation is urgent, you can call their doctor, a mental health crisis service, or even 000 if the person’s life is at risk. Alternatively, providing they agree, you can go to the local hospital’s emergency department.

You might also consider calling Lifeline (13 11 14), the Suicide Call Back Service (1300 659 467), the beyondblue Support Service (1300 224 636), or Kids Helpline (1800 551 800).