Myth: If We Restrict One Means of Suicide, They’ll Just Pick Another
It can feel like blocking one method of killing oneself wouldn’t make a difference, but the research says it matters a great deal.
Fact: Suicidal Individuals Rarely Switch Means
It’s not like no one ever switches means when their preferred method is blocked, but it matters a great deal. Research consistently shows that when one means is restricted, the rates for other means don’t increase substantially. If we can block the means that a person has decided upon, it’s unlikely they’ll go on to select another.
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Evidence
There’s strong evidence that someone won’t switch means once they’ve decided on one. Across a number of means restriction interventions, we’ve seen a reduction in suicide deaths.
In Support of the Myth
None identified.
To Refute the Myth
Clear evidence that the Ellington Bridge anti-suicide barrier resulted in a reduction of suicide deaths by jumping from a bridge.
Locking up soldiers’ guns makes a difference in suicide rate.
"Interventions to reduce suicides at suicide hotspots: a systematic review and meta-analysis" (2015)
Means restriction is effective at reducing suicides.
"The effectiveness of structural interventions at suicide hotspots: a meta-analysis" (2013)
“Structural interventions at ‘hotspots’ avert suicides at these sites.”
"Preventing suicide by jumping: the effect of a bridge safety fence" (2007)
If a fence is installed, people are unlikely to switch to a different bridge.
"The impact of pesticide regulations on suicide in Sri Lanka" (2007)
Significant reduction in suicides, because the reformulated pesticide is less able to be used for a suicide attempt.
Changes in rate in the United Kingdom by detoxifying gas.
Unclear or Mixed Support
Efficacy shown for bridges but not cliffs.
Learn more about suicide myths – and the truths behind them – by following the links below.