Suicide is a real issue among college-age students due to multiple stressors and challenges they face. Despite increased awareness, many misconceptions about suicide persist, hindering effective prevention and support. Debunking these myths is essential for fostering a safer campus environment. Here are five common myths about suicide and the truths that counter them.

Myth 1: Talking about suicide increases the risk

A common myth is that discussing suicide with someone might increase their risk of attempting it. Having open conversations about suicide is crucial. Research indicates that directly asking about suicidal thoughts does not increase risk but provides a chance for individuals to seek help. Students trained to talk about suicide are more likely to assist peers in crisis, demonstrating the power of open dialogue and peer support. Breaking the silence reduces stigma and encourages help-seeking behaviors. Even if you fear not having the "right words," showing compassion and a willingness to listen is more important than saying the perfect thing.

Myth 2: People who talk about suicide are just seeking attention

Another misconception is that individuals who talk about suicide are merely seeking attention. This belief can prevent them from receiving necessary help. Any mention of suicidal thoughts should be taken seriously as it often indicates significant distress. Research suggests that attention-seeking behaviors around suicide reflect a need for support rather than manipulation. Recognizing and addressing these behaviors is crucial for timely intervention and risk reduction.

Myth 3: Suicide happens without warning

Many people believe suicide happens without warning, but individuals often show signs of suicidal ideation before an attempt. These signs include talking about wanting to die, withdrawing from social activities, extreme mood swings, or risky behaviors. Recognizing these warning signs can save livesand empowers friends and family to intervene effectively. 

Check out the Suicide Prevention Coalition webpage to learn more about suicide signs and resources. You may also enroll in programs like Kognito provide interactive training to recognize and respond to signs of mental distress. Additionally, the "R UOK?" peer support program equips students to ask important questions and support others, fostering a culture of care on campus.

Myth 4: Only people with mental health concerns consider suicide

While mental health concerns like depression and anxiety increase suicide risk, they are not the only factors. Life events, stressors, trauma, and substance abuse can also contribute to suicidal thoughts. It's important to consider the broader context of an individual's life, not just diagnosed conditions.

Myth 5: Suicidal thoughts will never go away

A persistent myth is that once someone experiences suicidal thoughts, they will always struggle with them. However, these thoughts are often temporary and linked to specific situations. With appropriate care and support, individuals can move past suicidal ideation and lead fulfilling lives.

Conclusion

Dispelling myths about suicide is crucial to creating a supportive campus environment where students feel safe seeking help. By educating ourselves and others, we can better recognize signs of distress and provide effective support and intervention. Services such as University Counseling Service and Student Care and Assistance provide individualized support, connecting students to resources for academic, financial, or personal challenges. For emergencies, the 988 crisis line offers immediate assistance, ensuring help is always available when needed.

References:

Batterham, P. J., Calear, A. L., & Christensen, H. (2020). The Stigma of Suicide Scale: Psychometric properties and correlates of the stigma of suicide. *BMC Psychiatry, 20*(1), 342. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12888-020-02715-9

Brown, G. K., Ten Have, T. R., Henriques, G. R., Xie, S. X., Hollander, J. E., & Beck, A. T. (2005). Cognitive therapy for the prevention of suicide attempts: A randomized controlled trial. *Journal of the American Medical Association*, 294(5), 563–570. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11036193/

Chiles, J. A., & Strosahl, K. D. (2005). Clinical manual for assessment and treatment of suicidal patients. American Psychiatric Publishing.

Gatto, A., Rizvi, S. L., & Reynolds, M. (2020). Suicide prevention for college students: A campus-wide approach. *Journal of American College Health*, 68(8), 797-805. https://doi.org/10.1080/07448481.2020.1739053

Hill, R. M., & Petit, J. W. (2016). The role of lethal means restriction in suicide prevention. Crisis: The Journal of Crisis Intervention and Suicide Prevention, 37*(5), 331–340. https://doi.org/10.1027/0227-5910/a000516

Mayo Clinic Health System. (2023). 8 common myths about suicide. Mayo Clinic Health System. Retrieved from [https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/8-common-myths-about-suicide](https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/8-common-myths-about-suicide)