Suicide Facts:

• Talking about suicide WILL NOT put the idea into someone’s mind. The truth is most people will be relieved that someone has noticed their pain and are willing to help.
• People who die by suicide DO NOT always leave notes.
• People who die by suicide generally DO warn others. Eight out of 10 people have given clues as to their intentions. Knowing the risk factors and warning signs and talking with the person is a major factor in preventing suicide.
• It is estimated that more the 750,000 people attempt suicide every year.
• People who talk about suicide MAY be trying to get attention in order to get help. They should be taken seriously.
• Over 70% of people who threaten to carry out a suicide either make an attempt or die by suicide.
• If a person attempts suicide, it IS likely they will try again. 80% of those who die by suicide have made at least one previous attempt.
• Once a person’s emotional state improves, the risk of suicide IS NOT necessarily over. It may mean that they have made the decision to die by suicide and are feeling relieved at their decision.
• Most people who think about suicide ARE AMBIVALENT right up until the end. Most people don’t want to die; they want the pain to stop.
• Most suicides ARE preventable. There are effective treatments for mental health and substance abuse problems.
• For every suicide death, it is estimated that there are 6 survivors.
• Most suicides occur during the SPRING months, not the holidays.

1-866-912-HOPE (4673) (toll free) OR 978-327-6607

Teen Help Line: 978-688-8336 (TEEN)

Statewide Help Line: 1-877-870-4673 (HOPE)