Key facts and myths about suicide

Every year a million people commit suicide around the world and over 20 million attempt it. Suicide also has a profound impact on the lives of the friends and family members left behind.

The problem of suicide is aggravated by a conspiracy of silence and by prejudice. In most cases, however, suicidal behaviour can be prevented if appropriate measures are established to provide help.


Signs of a suicidal crisis include:

Depression, despair and an inability to carry on with everyday life.

Feelings of loneliness, and a lack of social ties.

Suffering and pain due to physical disease.

A tendency to think or hope that death is preferable to life.


If you are thinking about suicide or know someone in this situation, bear the following in mind:

This is not a problem you should try to solve on your own.

The first step is to talk to someone close to you who can help.

Seek professional help as soon as possible from your family doctor,     psychiatrist, psychologist or carer.

If someone you know is experiencing a suicidal crisis, don't leave     them alone until they've received professional attention.