Myth: People Will Always Volunteer Their Suicidal Ideation
Some people will communicate their suicidal ideation, but most will not.
Fact: You Should Always Ask About Suicidal Ideation
Asking about suicidal ideation will not plant the idea. The best indicator of whether someone is considering suicide is to ask them directly.
Learn More
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Evidence
The evidence clearly indicates that people are reluctant or hesitant to volunteer this information for fear of what the other person will say, think, or do. In some cases, the person with suicidal ideation may fear their career or job will be in jeopardy if they disclose their thoughts.
In Support of the Myth
None identified.
To Refute the Myth
"Rates of denying suicide ideation proximate to death by suicide: a re-analysis" (2022)
Denial of ideation in those who later died by suicide is estimated at 69.7% one week prior to their death and 67.6% one month prior.
"The Communication of Suicidal Intentions: A Meta-Analysis" (2016)
Approximately half of those who die by suicide communicate their suicidal intentions prior to their suicide.
Few patients are asked about suicidal ideation, and few will acknowledge suicidal ideation if not asked.
"Do patients volunteer their Life Weariness and Suicidal Ideations? A Sri Lankan Study" (2004)
“Patients who have suicidal thoughts do not volunteer them unless directly asked.”
“Generally, the results suggest that patients are an important source of information about risk, perhaps because they have built the most comprehensive experience base for predicting their behavior across a range of familiar contexts.”
Unclear or Mixed Support
None identified.
Learn more about suicide myths – and the truths behind them – by following the links below.