Can You Tell Myth from Reality?

One way to minimize some of the problems we face is to recognize the potential for self-destructive behavior. Which of the following statements are true:

True False

1. Adolescents who talk about killing themselves rarely commit suicide.
2. The tendency toward suicide is inherited and passed from generation to generation.
3. The suicidal person wants to die and feels that there is no turning back.
4. Suicidal people are mental ill.
5. If someone attempts suicide, that person will always entertain thoughts of suicide.
6. If you ask an adolescent about suicidal intentions, you will encourage the young person to commit suicide.
7. Suicide is more prevalent among lower socioeconomic groups.
8. When a depression lifts, there is no longer any dangerof suicide.
9. Suicide is a spontaneous activity that occurs without warning.

Answers

Each of these statements regarding suicide is a myth.

1. Many adolescents who commit suicide have indicated their intent; no threat should be ignored.
2. Suicide is a behavior, and is not inherited. Some disorders associated with the increased likelihood of acting on suicidal thoughts may be inherited.
3. Many people have sought help immediately following an attempted suicide.
4. There is a dramatic difference between being depressed or highly stressed and being diagnosed as mentally ill. Many who have attempted suicide could not have been diagnosed as mentally ill.
5. Most adolescents who have considered suicide do so for only brief periods in their lives. A young person who attempts suicide and survives, may never attempt it again with proper support and treatment.
6. Frequently asking a person about suicide will not only allow that person to unload built up anxiety and stress, but also reduce the likelihood of suicide.
7. Suicide does not discriminate by economic means.
8. Research suggests that the time of greatest risk of suicide is in the first three months after an adolescent begins recovery from severe depression.
9. Some youthful suicides may be spontaneous, but most are thought through in advance.

Revised and reprinted with permission, American Association of School Administrators, 1801 N. Moore St., Arlington, VA 22209-9988, (703) 875-0748.