{"id":103072,"date":"2019-09-25T15:29:56","date_gmt":"2019-09-25T19:29:56","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/news\/?p=103072"},"modified":"2019-09-25T16:13:13","modified_gmt":"2019-09-25T20:13:13","slug":"suicide-myths-signs-and-prevention","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.ucf.edu\/news\/suicide-myths-signs-and-prevention\/","title":{"rendered":"Suicide: Myths, Signs and Prevention"},"content":{"rendered":"

Roughly one in four college students experience suicidal thoughts. Suicide is also the second leading cause of death among individuals ages 10 to 25, with the number of attempts or deaths increasing over the years, says UCF Professor of counselor education<\/a> Glenn Lambie.<\/p>\n

We talked with Lambie for guidance on the misconceptions and realities as well as ways we might help someone else or ourselves when navigating thoughts of suicide.<\/p>\n

What are some common myths about suicide?<\/strong><\/p>\n

Myth No. 1: Talking about suicide and asking if someone feels suicidal might encourage suicidal thoughts or attempts. <\/em>
\nTalking to individuals gives them a chance to talk about how they feel and share their fears and struggles.<\/p>\n

Myth No. 2: Many people talk about suicide but never actually attempt or die from it.<\/em>
\nTalking about suicide is a sign someone is seeking help or considering suicide. It is important to encourage people in crisis to talk about how they feel and directly ask if they are considering suicide.<\/p>\n

Myth No. 3: Suicide deaths or suicide attempts happen without warning.<\/em>
\nThere are many signs someone is considering suicide. Examples may include previous attempts, preoccupation with death, suicidal thoughts, giving away possessions, significant changes in behaviors, lack of interest in the future or sudden contentment or positivity (as they may have decided to end their pain through suicide).<\/p>\n

Myth No. 4: If someone threatens suicide, they are just looking for attention.<\/em>
\nAlways treat suicidal thoughts and attempts seriously. If someone attempts to gain attention, it is a sign they need help.<\/p>\n

Myth No. 5: If a young person has thoughts of suicide, they are depressed.<\/em>
\nWhile depression contributes to many suicides, it does not have to be present for a person to attempt or die by suicide.<\/p>\n

Myth No. 6: Suicide risk is genetic.<\/em>
\nSuicide may be overrepresented within a family because of similar experiences and environments. A family history of suicide may also increase awareness for other family members. However, suicide risk cannot be inherited genetically.<\/p>\n

If someone attempts suicide, are they always at risk of suicide?<\/strong><\/p>\n

Many people who consider suicide may only be at risk for a distinct period. If individuals receive appropriate help and support, they can recover and go on to live meaningful lives.<\/p>\n

What are potential warning signs of suicidal thoughts?<\/strong><\/p>\n