If you think that someone is considering suicide, it is normal to feel unsure, upset, or perhaps wish to avoid thinking about it entirely. However, there are a number of facts you should be aware of that could even save a life. Suicide Watch and Wellness Foundation have written about some facts after their thorough research on the topic and understanding the facts can guide you in providing assistance to someone who is having difficulty coping.
Myth: People who talk about suicide aren’t serious about it and aren’t going to do it.
Fact: People who commit suicide have frequently expressed to others that they do not believe life is worth living or that they have no future. Some people may have expressed a desire to die openly.
It’s possible that someone will bring up the subject of suicide as a means of attracting attention, in the sense of begging for assistance.
When someone expresses suicidal thoughts, it’s important to take them seriously at all times. Providing them with the assistance they require could save their lives.
The vast majority of persons who are suicidal do not truly wish to die; rather, they do not wish to continue living their current lifestyle.
Myth: if someone is serious about killing themselves, there is nothing you can do to stop them.
Fact: Even if someone has been depressed, nervous, or trying to cope for a long period of time, it is common for them to experience active suicidal thoughts for a matter of minutes. This is why receiving the right type of assistance at the right moment is so significant.
Myth: To think about suicide, you must be suffering from a mental illness.
Fact: One in every five persons has considered the idea of taking their own life at some point in their lives. Furthermore, not all people who commit suicide do so because they are suffering from a mental illness.
Although many individuals commit suicide because of mental health issues, many of them suffer from these issues to a great extent. Sometimes it is found prior to the death of the person, and sometimes it is not.
Myth: People who are suicidal are motivated by a desire to die.
Fact: The vast majority of individuals who are suicidal do not truly want to die; rather, they do not want to continue living their current lifestyle. It is for this reason that discussing other possibilities at the right moment is so important.
Myth: Talking about suicide is a terrible idea because it may give someone the idea to try it.
Fact: Suicide can be a sensitive topic in some circles. Often, persons who are suicidal do not want to concern or bother anyone else with their feelings, and therefore they do not talk about it with anyone else.
However, by directly questioning someone about suicide, you give them the opportunity to express their feelings to you. People who have experienced suicidal thoughts frequently express how much relief it has been for them to be able to talk about what they are going through.
A person’s chances of finding alternatives to suicide improve significantly once they begin talking about their situation.
Myth: The majority of suicides occur during the winter months.
Fact: Suicide is a complicated issue that is not solely influenced by the seasons, the temperature, and whether or not there is more or less light in the environment. Suicide is more common in the spring, and the risk of committing suicide reaches a significant peak on New Year’s Day.
Contrary to popular belief, people who claim they are about to commit suicide are generally seeking attention and should not be taken seriously. People who express a desire to take their lives should always be regarded seriously, regardless of their age or gender. It is possible that they are seeking attention in the sense of calling for assistance, and guiding them in obtaining assistance may save their lives.
Conclusion:
Suicidal thoughts, no matter how speculative they appear, should always be regarded seriously.
Providing compassionate and supportive assistance to a person who is feeling suicidal is significant. If you suspect someone is at severe risk of committing suicide, please contact the Suicide Watch and Wellness Foundation or any organization that can assist them. They may become upset at the moment, but your efforts can keep them safe.