Common Myths and Facts about Suicide
myth
All suicidal individuals are mentally ill.
fact
Although the suicidal person is extremely unhappy, they are not necessarily mentally ill.
fact
Any individual with a history of one or more prior suicide attempts is at much greater risk.
myth
Asking about and probing the inmate about suicidal thoughts or actions will cause him to kill himself.
myth
Inmates who are really suicidal can easily be distinguished from those who hurt themselves but are just being manipulative.
fact
Jail suicides occur several times more often than in the general population.
fact
Manipulative goals as a motive for self injury are not useful in distinguishing more lethal attempts from less lethal.
fact
Most people who commit suicide have made either direct or indirect statements indicating their suicidal intentions.
fact
Most suicidal acts represent a carefully thought out strategy for coping with various person problems.
fact
Most suicidal people have mixed feelings about killing themselves. Most want to be saved.
fact
Most suicides can be prevented.
myth
People who attempt suicide have gotten it out of their systems and won't attempt it again.
myth
People who make suicidal statements or threaten suicide don't commit suicide.
myth
Suicidal people are intent on dying.
myth
Suicide happens suddenly and without warning.
myth
The rate of suicide is lower in a jail setting.
myth
You can't stop someone who is really intent on committing suicide.
fact
You cannot make someone suicidal when you show your interest in their welfare by discussing the possibility of suicide.
