Here is the answer key to the Suicide Fact and Myth Page:

1. MYTH. Many people who attempt suicide, tell someone, directly or indirectly.  All statements or threats must be taken seriously.

2. MYTH.  Suicide crosses all socio-economic strata.

3. MYTH.  Through behaviour changes, direct statements, or non-verbal clues, most people give some warning of potential suicide.

4. MYTH.  In fact, a dangerous myth.  Sometimes this may be the only way to determine the seriousness of the person or to confirm your suspicions.  As well, it indicates your willingness to discuss suicide and to help the person seek help.

5. MYTH.  Motives for suicide are as varied as the people who are involved (see number 11).

6. MYTH.  Nothing could be further from the truth.  Perhaps as many as 80% of completed suicides occurred after previous attempts.  This is especially true for young people.

7. MYTH.  Those considering suicide are usually ambivalent about death. Most so not wish to die, they simply want to escape an intolerable situation, and often change their mind about suicide in a very short period of time.

8. FACT.  Suicide and drug or alcohol abuse often go together.  Alcoholics are at much higher risk than the average population, and drugs or alcohol are often used just prior to an attempt.  Frequently people will do something (take risks, attempt suicide, drive carelessly) under the influence of drugs or alcohol that they might not do otherwise, even though they may not intend to die.

9. MYTH. The improvement may just indicate that the person has made a decision to end his or her life, and may 'feel better' having decided.

10. FACT.  However, the ratio varies from age group to age group, and males are, on average, three times more likely to complete suicide.

11. FACT.  Loss, especially loss of a relationship, may be one of the most significant factors preceding the suicide of an adolescent.  Other types of loss (ie. loss of esteem) are also important factors.

12. FACT.  Lack of hope for the future, for example, is an important clue.

13. MYTH.  This is one secret you cannot keep.  You may also lose a friendship temporarily, but may save your friend's life.

14. MYTH.  Anyone who is depressed needs support and attention.  People who talk about suicide are not faking, they are crying for attenting/help.

15. MYTH. Research indicates that although a suicidal person may be extremely unhappy, depressed or feel hopeless, she/he is not mentally ill.  Usually the person's feelings are related to a temporary emotional upset, the loss of a loved one or a painful or terminal illness;

16. MYTH.  Usually people are suicide for a short period of time.  If they can get help and support to get through the crisis that they are experiencing, they can return to a normal life.

17. FACT.  While the number of painful events can increase the risks, some people will have more personal and external resources, so make choices to live and find other ways to deal with the pain.

18. MYTH.  Many people who clearly kill themselves do not leave a note.

19. FACT.  A suicidal person gives many clues and warnings.  Being able to recognize danger signs can save a life.

20. MYTH.  While it is true that many depressed peopel commit suicide, research indicates that the majority of people who commit suicide were not depressed.  In fact, it is usually within three months of an 'improvement' from a deeply depressed state that most suicides occur.  This is a time for friends and family to be particularly supportive and observant.

21. MYTH.  Suicide does not run in families.  It is an individual decision and can be prevented.  However, the problems in a family which might lead one member to commit suicide may adversley affect other members of the family as well and put them at greater risk of attempting suicide.