Suicide MythsMythPeople who talk about suicide do not commit suicide.

FactMost people who commit suicide have talked about or given definite warning signs of their suicidal intentions.

MythSuicide happens without warning.

FactThere are almost always warning signs, but others are often unaware of the significance of the warnings or unsure about what to do.

MythSuicidal people are fully intent on dying. Nothing others do or say can help.

FactSuicide is preventable. Most suicidal people desperately want to live; they are just unable to see alternatives to their problems.

MythOnce someone is suicidal, they are suicidal forever.

FactMost suicidal people are suicidal for only limited periods of time. However, someone who has made an attempt is at increased risk for future attempts.

MythImprovement after a suicidal crisis means that the risk of suicide is over.

FactMany suicides occur several months after the beginning of improvement, when a person has energy to act on suicidal thoughts.

MythSuicide strikes most often among the rich, or conversely, among the poor.

FactSuicide cuts across social and economic boundaries.