Myths About Suicide

Suicide, even more than mental illness in general, seems to be something we are afraid to talk about. Yet given suicide rates in the legal profession, we need to talk about it if we are to break the stigma and save some lives.

For starters, one common reason people often say they don’t want to talk about suicide is they don’t want to put it in the mind of someone who is struggling. However, that isn’t how it works. When I experienced passive suicidal ideation, it wasn’t because anyone suggested it. On the contrary, if someone had talked about suicide and mental illness, it would have perhaps given me an opening to seek support.

Another common misconception is that people who talk about, attempt, or who end up dying by suicide are just seeking attention. Again, this is generally not the case. If someone says they don’t want to live, it is important to take that seriously because it isn’t attention seeking behavior, it is pain and a desire to end that pain. Similarly, there are many red flags to notice, such as someone giving away prized possessions, or making other long term arraignments for things they care about.

This goes along with another myth, which is that talk therapy doesn’t work, or restricted access to lethal means (bridge guards and red flag laws to take firearms away from those with suicidal ideation for example) don’t work. Again, the facts just don’t support this. Reducing access to lethal tools lowers the likelihood of an attempt, as does having support from therapy or a peer support specialist.

It is also a common yet mistaken belief that there are no warning signs. Those struggling with suicidal ideation might not talk openly about it, but there often are signs, such as someone becoming more withdrawn, someone giving away possessions, or someone increasing use of substances such as drugs and alcohol.

Lastly, there is the most stigmatizing misconception (in my opinion), which is that those who die by suicide are weak, or that they take the “coward’s way out.” Suicidal ideation is a symptom of a much deeper pain, one that shouldn’t be ignored and one that no one should have to carry alone. There is nothing weak about it. And if you are living with suicidal ideation, it is nothing to be ashamed of.

If you are living with suicidal ideation, or know someone who is, know that there is hope. You can call 988, 24/7. You can also reach out to your local Legal Assistance Program or to non-profits like The LegalMind Society for support.