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Myths Source unknown Myth #1 A youth threatening suicide is really not serious about completing suicide. Fact Those youth who talk about suicide or exhibit suicidal behaviors are serious suicide risks. As a friend, parent or professional caregiver, it is better to overestimate the risk of suicide and intervene than to ignore or minimize the behaviors. Myth #2 Suicide cannot be prevented because, somehow, a suicidal youth will find a way to do it. Fact The majority of the time youth who kill themselves have given definite signs or talked about suicide. The keys to prevention are recognizing the warning signs and knowing what to do to help. Remember that most suicidal youth do not really want to die, they just want their pain to end. Myth #3 Talking about suicide will cause someone to attempt suicide. Fact Talking about suicide does not create or increase risk; it actually reduces it. If you have observed any of the warning signs, chances are the youth is already thinking about suicide. Be direct in a caring, non-confrontational way; ask the question, "are you thinking about suicide?" Open talk and genuine concern are a source of relief and key elements in preventing the immediate danger of suicide. Top of page Webmaster: wulff@ratatosk.net |