MYTH

Suicide is selfish.

FACT

Suicide may be self-focused, but that is very different than selfish. In fact, many suicides are driven by the idea that one is a burden to others.

MYTH

Talking about suicide will encourage suicide attempts.

FACT

Talking about suicide provides the opportunity for communication. The first step in encouraging person with thoughts of suicide to live comes from talking about those feelings.

MYTH

People who threaten suicide are just seeking attention.

FACT

All suicide attempts must be treated as though the person has the intent to die. Do not dismiss a suicide attempt as simply being an attention-gaining device. The attention they get may well save their lives.

MYTH

Most suicides occur in winter months when the weather is poor.

FACT

Adolescent suicidal behavior is most common during the spring and early summer months.

MYTH

Sudden improvement in mental state means suicidal crisis is over.

FACT

The opposite may be true. In the three months following an attempt, a young person is at most risk of dying by suicide. The apparent lifting of the problems could mean the person has made a firm decision to die by suicide and feels better because of this decision.