Suicide is a topic that is not openly discussed by many people, and there can be a lot of stigma associated with suicide and mental illness. An important part of raising awareness and combating stigma is knowing the facts. Test your knowledge by taking the quiz.
Take the quiz:
1. Myth or Fact? Most suicides occur with little or no warning.
Correct. This is a myth. The fact is: Most people communicate warning signs of how they are reacting to or feeling about stressful events in their lives whether it be a problem with a significant other, family member, best friend, superiors, financial matters or legal issues. Warning signs may present themselves as direct statements, physical signs, emotional reactions, or behaviors such as withdrawing from friends. When stressors and warning signs are present suicide may be considered as the only option to escape pain, relieve tension, maintain control, or cope with stress. source
Incorrect. This is a myth. The fact is: Most people communicate warning signs of how they are reacting to or feeling about stressful events in their lives whether it be a problem with a significant other, family member, best friend, superiors, financial matters or legal issues. Warning signs may present themselves as direct statements, physical signs, emotional reactions, or behaviors such as withdrawing from friends. When stressors and warning signs are present suicide may be considered as the only option to escape pain, relieve tension, maintain control, or cope with stress. source
2. Myth or Fact? You do not need to be an expert to help prevent suicide.
Incorrect. This is a fact. Suicide prevention is everybody’s business, and anyone can help prevent it. You can learn more by taking a QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) workshop at UBC or by visiting the Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention (CASP) website.
Correct. This is a fact. Suicide prevention is everybody’s business, and anyone can help prevent it. You can learn more by taking a QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) workshop at UBC or by visiting the Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention (CASP) website.
3. Myth or Fact? Confronting a person about suicide will only make them angry and increase the risk of suicide.
Correct. This is a myth. The fact is: Asking someone directly about suicide can help lower anxiety, open up communication, and lower the risk of an impulsive act.
Incorrect. This is a myth. The fact is: Asking someone directly about suicide can help lower anxiety, open up communication, and lower the risk of an impulsive act.
4. Myth or Fact? Many people who attempt or complete suicide often tell someone, either directly or indirectly.
Incorrect. This is a fact. The fact is: many people who attempt or complete suicide often tell someone, either directly or indirectly. Most people do give some warning of potential suicide. You need to be alert to such warnings, to listen carefully to those around you who may be in crisis. You might think it is safer not to talk about suicide with someone you think is considering it. On the contrary, talking may be the only way to understand the person’s intentions or to confirm your fears. A willingness to listen indicates that you care, that you are willing to help. source.
Correct. This is a fact. Many people who attempt or complete suicide often tell someone, either directly or indirectly. Most people do give some warning of potential suicide. You need to be alert to such warnings, to listen carefully to those around you who may be in crisis. You might think it is safer not to talk about suicide with someone you think is considering it. On the contrary, talking may be the only way to understand the person’s intentions or to confirm your fears. A willingness to listen indicates that you care, that you are willing to help. source.
5. Myth or Fact? Once a person decides to complete suicide, there is nothing anyone can do to stop them.
Correct. This is a myth. Suicide is the most preventable kind of death, and almost any positive action may save a life. Learn more about what you can do to Reach Out if you are concerned about someone you know.
Incorrect. This is a myth. Suicide is the most preventable kind of death, and almost any positive action may save a life. Learn more about what you can do to Reach Out if you are concerned about someone you know.