Facts and Fables About Suicide

If you are in crisis, dial 2-1-1 from anywhere in Connecticut. 2-1-1 is certified by the American Association of Suicidology. If you live outside of Connecticut use the National Hopeline number which is 1-800-784-2433.

Fable: People who talk about suicide don’t commit suicide.
Fact: Most people who kill themselves have given definite warnings of their suicidal intentions.

Fable: Suicide happens without warning.
Fact: Suicidal persons typically give many clues regarding their suicidal intentions.

Fable: Suicidal people are fully intent on dying.
Fact: Most suicidal people are ambivalent about living or dying - that’s what makes prevention possible.

Fable: Once people are suicidal, they are suicidal forever.
Fact: Individuals who wish to kill themselves are suicidal only for a limited period of time.

Fable: Suicide strikes much more often among the rich - or, conversely, almost exclusively among the poor.
Fact: Suicide is very “democratic” and is represented proportionately among all levels of society.

Shneidman, E.S., Farberow, N.L., & Litmam, R.E. The Psychology of Suicide. New York: Aronson, 1983.