Common Misconceptions About Suicide by Maram Barakat, M.A.

World Suicide Prevention Day is observed on September 10th every year. On average, there are 132 suicides per day in the United States. Fortunately, there are many ways to prevent some suicides from happening.

It starts by recognizing warning signs that the other person is displaying (talking about death or wanting to die, becoming more and more isolated, selling or getting rid of their personal belongings, leaving notes, etc.). Do not be afraid to talk about this topic with people. It can actually help save many lives.

Here are a few clarifications regarding some common misconceptions that people tend to think of when it comes to suicide.

Talking about suicide with someone does NOT increase their likelihood to attempt it.
Children can also have suicidal thoughts and attempts. Make sure to take kids seriously if they express such thoughts to you.
A person who talks about wanting to die or complete suicide is NOT doing it to just seek attention. Even when it looks like it is, this person is struggling and deserves support.

Reach out, seek help, and get the support that you need.

If you or a loved one is struggling with thoughts of suicide, do not hesitate to call the 24/7 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at (800) 273-8255. The Lukin Center is also available to answer questions and provide professional psychological support. Please reach out!

Maram Barakat, M.A., is currently pursuing her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology at Fairleigh Dickinson University. She has a master's degree in Clinical Psychology from Teachers College, Columbia University, with a special focus on global mental health and research methods. She is primarily interested in providing access to quality mental health services in low-to-middle income countries and vulnerable populations. She is especially passionate about working with survivors of abuse and violence. In fact, she has integrated her passion with her academic interests by focusing her master's thesis on culturally adapting and implementing cognitive processing therapy to Syrian refugee women who have experienced sexual violence during and post-displacement. Maram has worked as a mental health professional and advocate in Lebanon, Uganda, and New York for the past six years. At the Lukin Center, Maram will be taking on the role of social media manager. Her main responsibilities entail managing and monitoring the center's social media platforms, creating content, increasing engagement, and more. Apart from her professional interests, she enjoys acting, karaoke, and extreme sports.