There are many myths that surround the topic of suicide. It is important to clarify myths from truths, as misinformation may interfere with our ability to help someone struggling with thoughts of suicide.

Myth #1: People who talk about suicide will not actually attempt or complete suicide.

This is false. If someone is talking about suicide, despite the tone it is said in, it must be taken as a serious cry for help.

Myth #2: Suicide is generally completed without warning.

False. 80% of people who attempt or die by suicide leave clues, either verbally or through their changing behaviour. This is why it is important that we learn the signs so we may intervene if possible.

Myth #3: Suicide rates are higher in poor people.

False. Suicide can affect all people from all walks of life. It is important that we look at the individual and how they cope with the difficulties they are faced with. We have to be careful not to stereotype a "suicidal person" because we may miss someone who may be having problems that does not fit into our idea of who may be suicidal.

Myth #4: Membership in a particular religious group means that a person will not consider suicide.

False. While having a strong support group, be it religious or not, can be an advantage to a person who is at risk, it does not guarantee immunity. The person at risk may also feel unworthly of membership in the religious group. They may in fact push them further toward suicide.

Myth #5: The motives for suicide are easily established.

False. The reasons are many and varied. One of the most common factors is experiencing a loss. Kinds of losses may include death of a loved one, relationship break-up, loss of self-esteem, abuse or incarceration, loss of health through chronic illness, etc.

Myth #6: A person with a terminal illness is more likely to die by suicide than the general population.

False. This is not necessarily so. The person may be at a higher risk when initially diagnosed, but as they work their way through the grief cycle, they come to a place where making the most of their time left is very important. For many, the element of hope can be what keeps them going.

Myth #7: A tendency to have thoughts of suicide is inherited.

False. There is no evidence that there is a suicide "gene" that can be passed on, however in some cases, suicide is modelled as a way of coping, thus other family members learn that this is a method of escaping your problems. Families mourning the loss of a loved one by suicide are at a higher risk of suicide themselves.

Myth #8: After a serious bout of depression, a swift improvement in emotional state means lessened risk of suicide.

False. This may in fact be because they now have a plan for suicide, which they feel will solve their problems. Making this decision can remove a burden and that person may appear to be doing much better. At this point, they may be at a very high risk.

Myth #9: Suicidal people clearly wish to die.

False. Suicide seems like a way to end present pain. A suicidal person may see no other alternatives. This is their reality.

Myth #10: Discussing suicide with a depressed person is dangerous because it puts the idea into his or her head.

False. Talking about suicide lets the person know that they are not alone and that you care. Most people are relieved after they are finally able to talk about their feelings.

Myth #11: Suicide among the elderly is rare.

False. The elderly face many issues that younger individuals may not. These may include physical health (terminal illness), loss of a spouse or close friends, loss of independence, mental health issues such as memory loss, dementia, etc. Thus, the elderly are facing many losses that some struggle to cope with.

Myth #12: There is no relationship between drugs, alcohol and suicide.

False. Drugs and alcohol are long-term depressants. Some resort to drugs and alcohol as a means of "numbing out" their pain, but this only enhances any emotions and pain they are struggling with.