Choose four of the seven common misconceptions about suicide from the list below and discuss why each is a misconception. (minimum 50 words each)
- Anyone who tries to kill himself/herself must be crazy.
According to SAVE, the misconception that anyone who attempts to kill themselves is crazy is not a sign that the individual is psychotic. It is merely a mirror of the intensity of the pain they are feeling, which is entirely normal in crisis situations, but it does not mean they do not, under normal circumstances, have full use of their mental utilities.
(Word Count: 62) - If a person is determined to kill himself/herself, nothing is going to stop him/her (Symptoms and Danger Signs of Suicide.).
No one who talks or has the desire to commit suicide really wants to do it. They are simple looking for a vehicle to end whatever pain they are going through, and no other idea or method has been the solution. Therefor suicide is always the last minute desperate plea to end the pain. But if any other answer or help presents itself, people will most certainly take that alternative route.
(Word Count: 71) - People who commit suicide always leave notes (Suicidology).
Only a small percentage of suicides actually leave notes explaining why they decided to take their own life. This could be for a variety of reasons, such as trying to avoid anyone placing blame on themselves or other individuals. It could also be that the overwhelming feelings were so strong, there was really no desire to prepare anything, just to get it over with.
(Word Count: 64) - Once the emotional crisis improves, the risk of suicide is over.
Another misconception about suicide is that once a situation is over, then suicide is no longer a danger. Unfortunately the mental state of the individual is still very fragile, and often times having another event that leads to a step backwards can be more devastating than the original crisis because the feeling of “never improving” is overwhelming. Having a second situation push you down from your progress not only brings back the memories of your particular crisis, but makes you feel like attempts to recovery are futile.
(Word Count: 87)
