Talking About Suicide Doesn’t Hurt Anyone. Not talking about it does!

NATIONAL SUICIDE PREVENTION LIFELINE: 800-273-8255

Some people worry that talking about suicide with a person who is suicidal may make the person actually follow through and attempt suicide. This is a natural fear and no one wants to make a suicidal person worse. That being said, talking about suicide with a person who is suicidal is actually one of the most helpful things you can do.

MYTHS ABOUT TALKING ABOUT SUICIDE

Myth 1: People who talk about suicide won’t really do it.

Fact: According to HelpGuide.org, “Almost everyone who commits or attempts suicide has given some clue or warning. Do not ignore suicide threats. Statements like “you’ll be sorry when I’m dead,” “I can’t see any way out,” – no matter how casually or jokingly said may indicate serious suicidal feelings.

Additionally, in a study of 100 patients who attempted suicide, 84% had sought the counsel of a healthcare provider in the month before their attempt.

People do not want to die. Most people reach out for help.

Myth 2: Talking about suicide will give someone ideas.

Fact: According to HealthGuide.org, “You don’t give a suicidal person morbid ideas by talking about suicide. The opposite is true – bringing up the subject of suicide and discussing it openly is one of the most helpful things you can do.”

Talking and asking about suicide actually shows that you care about the person, that you take him or her seriously and that it’s okay to share his or her pain with you. (Natasha Tracy, Healthy Place)