* Suicidal people really want to die, so there's no way to stop them.

False. They are depressed and need help. With help, they can feel better and find other solutions.

* Talking about suicide will cause a person to attempt suicide.

False. It's just the opposite: not talking about it could escalate the problem. Even thinking about it makes the suicidal person feel worse. Talking will help bring understanding. Talking about it can help to provide a feeling of relief and encourage them to get the professional help that's needed. Discussing the subject openly shows that you take the person seriously and that you care.

* If a person really wants to kill himself or herself, no one has the right to stop him or her.

False. We would help a person who was physically sick or injured: we need to help a person who is mentally ill.

* Improvement following a suicidal crisis means that the suicide risk is over.

False. Most suicides occur within 3 months following the beginning of "improvement", when the individual has the energy to put their morbid thoughts and feelings into effect. Relatives, physicians, and friends should be especially vigilant during this period.

--Myths on suicide came from: McIntosh,J., Hubbard.R. & Santos,J (1985)