Suicidal Myths MYTH 1: Talking about suicide is a bad idea, as it may be seen as encouragement. FALSE. Rather than encouraging suicide, talking openly helps prevent suicide. MYTH 2: A person who is suicidal is determined to die. FALSE. Suicidal persons are often ambivalent about dying. Emotional support at the right time can help prevent suicide. MYTH 3: Most suicides happen without warning. FALSE. Most suicides are preceded by warning signs, either verbal or behavioural. Many will talk to friends & relatives or doctors about wanting to die. Don’t ignore it. MYTH 4: People who talk about suicide do not mean to do it. FALSE. People who talk about suicide may be reaching out for help or support. They may feel there is no other option. You can help. Sit down. Listen to them. Offer help. MYTH 5: Once someone is suicidal, they will always remain suicidal. FALSE. Suicidal thoughts are not permanent. They are usually short term and situation specific. Many individuals with suicidal thoughts and attempts go on to live a long life. MYTH 6: Only people with mental illness are suicidal. FALSE. Especially in India, where research shows less than 50% have a pre-existing mental illness. People with mental illness are not necessarily suicidal & those who die of suicide do not necessarily have a mental illness.(Dr Soumitra Pathare)(This article was first published in National Herald on Sunday.)
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