PSA: Winter is right around the corner

Too many people have this perception that people with clinical depression are “just whining” or “just want attention” or “drama queens” or “manipulative,” ..

Always take a suicide threat seriously and never keep it a secret!

You must never call a person's bluff, or try to minimize his problems by telling him he has everything to live for or how hurt his family would be. This will only increase his guilt and feelings of hopelessness. He needs to be reassured that there is help, that what he is feeling is treatable, and that his suicidal feelings are temporary.

MYTHS ABOUT SUICIDE
· People who talk about suicide are just venting. They won’t do it.
Not True
Almost everyone who commits suicide has given a warning. No matter how casual the “joke” it is important not to ignore a suicide threat.

· People who talk about suicide are being manipulative and you shouldn’t play in to it.
Not True
There is a half-truth that when people talk about dying they want some way out but they don’t believe they can get it or know how. Take all suicidal comments seriously and ask questions.

· Anyone who is thinking of killing her/himself must be crazy.
Not True
Most people have some thoughts about wanting to die at one time or another in their life. People who want to die are under extreme stress or are depressed. Depression is treatable.

· People who commit suicide are unwilling to seek help.
Not True
It is common that people who are thinking about suicide have sought help within six months of their death. If they have, it is important for you to find out what happened, why it didn’t help and to let the suicidal person know that it is very possible to recover from depression.

· Nothing is going to stop someone who wants to die.
Not True
People who are thinking about suicide often have very mixed feelings. Often times they don’t want death but to stop pain.