September 25, 2026
Additionally, September is Suicide Prevention Month, which makes it a good time to clear up myths about the topic. Misinformation doesn’t cloud understanding; it can stop people from reaching out, and others nearby from stepping in. Let’s explore what the research and clinical experience actually tell us.
Myth 1: Asking someone if they’re suicidal will plant the idea.
In suicide prevention, direct questions are considered safe and helpful. This can be one of the most damaging myths out there. Studies consistently show that asking someone directly about suicidal thoughts does not increase risk — it often brings relief. Most people who are struggling feel isolated in that pain; being asked, gently and directly, signals that someone noticed and cares enough to ask.
Myth 2 : People are seeking attention.
This myth suggests that people who talk about suicide are just seeking attention. They won’t actually do it, harming suicide prevention. Dismissing it as attention-seeking can cause someone to stop reaching out altogether. Every mention should be taken seriously and addressed properly.
Myth 3: Suicide happens without warning.
In most cases, there are signs beforehand: withdrawing from others, giving away belongings, changes in sleep or mood, expressions of hopelessness, or a sudden sense of calm after a period of depression. The signs aren’t always obvious, but usually they’re significant.
Myth 4: Only people with a diagnosed mental illness die by suicide.
While mental health conditions like depression increase risk, suicide can affect anyone — including people with no history of mental illness who are facing a crisis, loss, financial strain, or overwhelming life stress.
Myth 5: Once someone decides to end their life, there’s nothing you can do to stop them.
Most people who survive a suicide attempt do not go on to die by suicide later, many describe the crisis as something they’re grateful they survived with support and intervention.
Myth 6: People who die by suicide are selfish or emotionally weak.
This framing misunderstands what’s happening. The unbearable psychological pain and a distorted belief from such thinking that they think others would be better off without them does not stem from selfishness. Compassion, not judgment, is what actually helps.
Myth 7: If someone is determined to die, nothing will help.
Even brief interventions, a caring conversation, a call to a crisis line, connecting someone to therapy can interrupt a crisis and save a life. Any amount of help matters, even when it doesn’t feel like it’s “enough.”
What actually helps
• Ask directly: “Are you thinking about suicide?”
• Listen without judgment
• Take every mention seriously
• Help from mental health professional or crisis line
• Stay engaged, don’t leave them alone if you believe they’re in immediate danger
Working through the reluctance
Recognizing you’re struggling is often the easy part. Actually picking up the phone or booking that first session is where a lot of people get stuck. If that’s you, you’re not alone- and the reluctance itself is worth understanding rather than pushing past.
Common reasons people hesitate:
• Fear of being judged or misunderstood
• Belief that their problem “isn’t serious enough” to warrant help
• Cultural or family messaging that therapy is a sign of weakness or failure
• Bad past experience with a therapist or the mental health system
• Not knowing where to start, or feeling overwhelmed by the logistics
• Cost or access concerns
• Fear of what they might uncover once they start talking
Ways to move through it, one small step at a time:
• Name the specific fear. “I don’t want to go to therapy” often hides something more specific — fear of crying in front of a stranger, fear of being told something’s “wrong” with them, fear it won’t help. Naming the actual fear can be helpful in addressing it.
• Lower the stakes of the first step. You don’t have to commit to years of therapy, you’re committing to one conversation. The first session as an information-gathering call can be helpful in starting therapy.
• Start with someone lower-pressure. A primary care doctor, a text-based crisis line, or a trusted friend can be an easier entry point than a therapist’s office, and can help bridge to further support.
• Ask directly for what kind of help feels okay right now. Some people aren’t ready for therapy but are ready for a support group, a helpline, or a self-help resource. All of these count as real steps.
• Let someone else make the first call. If reaching out feels too heavy, ask a friend or family member to help find a therapist or make the appointment with you.
• Remember consistency isn’t required to start. You don’t need to have your thoughts organized or “deserve” help enough. Showing up for therapy as you are is enough.
Contact us for a Free 15-Minute Consultation to discuss any questions you have regarding psychotherapy and its procedures.
