September is Suicide Prevention Month, and understanding the facts is the first step toward providing support and saving lives. We’re breaking down common myths, offering guidance on recognizing warning signs, and providing the resources for compassionate, expert care.
September is Suicide Prevention Month, a time to come together as a community to talk about the steps we can take for ourselves and our loved ones.
The right care can make all the difference. Keep reading to uncover common myths about suicide prevention and know that ZoomCare is here to help.
Myth: Asking someone directly if they're thinking about suicide will put the idea in their head.
Fact: asking directly is one of the most protective things you can do — it does not increase risk. Discussing suicide openly and responsibly can actually reduce the risk.
Myth: People who talk about suicide won't really do it.
Fact: Many individuals contemplating suicide give warning signs. It's vital to take any mention of suicide seriously and seek help immediately.
Myth: Once someone decides to take their life, nothing can stop them.
Fact: Intervention can and does save lives. Suicidal crises are often temporary and impulsive. With the right care, individuals can be supported through their crisis, and find hope and reasons to live.
Myth: Suicide only affects people with diagnosed mental illness.
Fact: while mental illness is a major risk factor, suicide can affect anyone, including people with no history of depression.
Myth: People who attempt suicide always show clear signs beforehand.
Fact: Warning signs aren't always visible, which is why checking in matters even without obvious signs.
While there's no single cause behind a suicide attempt, most people who are struggling show signs beforehand through what they say, how they act, or sudden changes in mood. Knowing what to look for can make it possible to step in before a crisis deepens. Here are the warning signs:
- Talking about wanting to die or feeling like a burden
- Withdrawing from friends, activities, or usual routines
- Giving away possessions or saying goodbye
- Increased substance use
- Dramatic mood changes or sudden calm after a period of depression
- Talking about feeling trapped or having no reason to live
Certain risk factors — including depression, substance use, a previous suicide attempt, or a major loss or life stressor — can raise a person's likelihood of considering suicide, though having one or more of these factors does not mean someone will act on them.
Suicide Hotline: The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is here for you 24/7. Don’t hesitate to reach out — talk to someone who cares and understands. You are valued, and your life matters. This is your sign to seek the support you need.
Mental Health Care: Prescription medication can be key in helping those who battle mental illness feel stronger and brighter. ZoomCare Mental Health visits can help you determine if mental health meds are right for you.
Already have a prescription? At ZoomCare, it’s easy to get your prescriptions refilled.
1. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). 988 Frequently Asked Questions.
2. National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). Suicide Prevention.
3. Dazzi T, Gribble R, Wessely S, Fear NT. Does asking about suicide and related behaviours induce suicidal ideation? What is the evidence?Psychological Medicine. 2014;44(16):3361–3363.
4. Mathias CW, et al. What's the harm in asking about suicidal ideation?Suicide and Life-Threatening Behavior. 2012;42(3):341–351.
5. National Institute of Mental Health. Warning Signs of Suicide.
6. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Risk and Protective Factors for Suicide.
7. Stanley B, Brown GK, Brenner LA, et al. Comparison of the Safety Planning Intervention with Follow-up vs Usual Care of Suicidal Patients Treated in the Emergency Department. JAMA Psychiatry. 2018;75(9):894–900.
8. Deisenhammer EA, et al. The Duration of the Suicidal Process: How Much Time Is Left for Intervention Between Consideration and Accomplishment of a Suicide Attempt?Journal of Clinical Psychiatry. 2009;70(1):19–24.
9. CDC. Vital Signs: Suicide Rising Across the US (fact sheet). June 2018.
10. American Academy of Pediatrics. Risk Factors, Protective Factors, and Warning Signs of Youth Suicide.
11. NIMH. Mental Health Medications.
Dr. Kelli Westcott is ZoomCare's System Services Medical Director, specializing in Emergency Care, Family Medicine, Behavioral Health and PVMQ/SCT.
