Stigma Surrounding Suicidal Behaviour

MYTH I: Stigma Surrounding Suicidal Behaviour Discourages Open Conversations

Suicide is a taboo subject, and as a result, many people fear or actively avoid discussing it. Rather than encouraging the person to commit suicide, the act of talking openly is more likely to make the person feel truly listened to and understood. This sense of connection is an option they may not have realised was available to them. It can increase the time they have to rethink their decision and reduce feelings of isolation. Ultimately, it decreases the likelihood of suicide by creating space for hope and support.

MYTH II: Stigma Surrounding Suicidal Behaviour Oversimplifies Its Causes

Everyone can be susceptible to suicidal thoughts and behaviours, regardless of their mental health background or diagnosis. While some individuals with mental disorders face an increased risk, not all who experience suicidal behaviour have one. Moreover, assuming suicide only stems from mental illness ignores the complexity of human emotions and experiences. Instead, recognising multiple contributing factors helps create more supportive, understanding, and effective prevention efforts.

MYTH III: Sudden Suicides Often Show No Clear Warning Signs

There are several warning signs that may appear before someone attempts to take their own life. These signs often include changes in behaviour, mood, or general outlook on life. Additionally, people may withdraw from social events with close friends or family members. You might also notice a growing preoccupation with death or feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness. In some cases, individuals give away prized possessions or show sudden shifts in sleeping and eating patterns.

MYTH IV: Expressing Suicidal Thoughts Is Not Just Seeking Attention

Do not dismiss suicide as merely an attempt to seek attention or create drama. Instead, recognise such expressions as potential cries for help from someone in deep emotional pain. Often, people use these statements to communicate struggles they don’t know how to express otherwise. Taking them seriously shows empathy and gives the person a chance to feel heard and supported. Ultimately, the attention and care you provide in that moment could help save a life.

MYTH: Suicide is a medical problem and therefore only doctors and professionals can help.
Suicide is a community-level problem. While doctors and other professionals may be more specifically trained to help such people, the community can offer support to its members by creating a safe and supportive environment for all its members. This means that everyone can help prevent suicide, simply by looking out for each other, offering a space to talk and providing emotional support.

MYTH VI: Suicide is always an impulsive behaviour

Although this may be true for some, many individuals experience prolonged periods of deep dissatisfaction and unhappiness. Often, these feelings are accompanied by ongoing, ambivalent thoughts about life, death, and their personal value. In many cases, people struggling with suicidal ideation spend time thinking about the act before making a decision. Additionally, they may go as far as planning when and how they might carry it out. This process is usually internal, making it difficult for others to notice or intervene in time. Ultimately, understanding this pattern highlights the importance of early support, open dialogue, and proactive mental health care.

MYTH VII: Once suicidal, always suicidal

While past suicide attempts can increase future risk, each situation should be evaluated individually and sensitively. Although heightened suicide risk may occur, it is usually short-term and connected to specific personal or external challenges. Moreover, suicidal thoughts often fade over time as circumstances change and support systems strengthen. Eventually, many individuals who once struggled with such thoughts go on to live full, meaningful lives.

Ask Someone You Suspect Is Considering Suicide

If you know someone who has expressed suicidal thoughts, ask them if they have contemplated or made plans on what they want to do and assess how dangerous the situation is. Encourage them to talk about it further, create a safety plan together (for example make a plan to check-in regularly and make short term plans together) and support them to find the professional help they need.

Final Thoughts on Stigma Surrounding Suicidal Behaviour

In a crisis situation, always contact emergency services without any hesitation or delay. Additionally, seeking professional support can help you manage emotional overwhelm effectively. Moreover, caring for yourself ensures you remain strong for others needing support. While supporting someone, your own wellbeing should always remain a priority too. Sometimes, stepping back briefly allows you to recharge and gain clearer perspective. Meanwhile, professional guidance can offer you tools to cope and respond better. Over time, your emotional resilience can improve with the right support system. Therefore, asking for help is a strength, not a weakness in difficult moments. Eventually, your increased strength will help you be more present and supportive. Ultimately, helping yourself first allows you to help others more meaningfully and sustainably.