• MYTH - Talking about suicide gives people the idea to do it. 

• FACT - Talking openly and safely about suicide can help people feel seen and supported. Honest conversations often create opportunities for someone to ask for help instead of suffering in silence. 

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• MYTH - People who talk about suicide just want attention,

• FACT - Many people who speak about hopelessness or emotional pain are trying to communicate that they are struggling deeply. These conversations should always be taken seriously. 

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• MYTH - Christians should just pray more and trust God.

• FACT - Faith and mental health can coexist. Struggling emotionally does not mean someone lacks faith, and reaching out for support is not weakness. 

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• MYTH - Suicide only affects certain types of people. 

• FACT - Mental health struggles can affect anyone - regardless of age, background, faith, career or family situation. In South Africa, many individuals silently battle depression, trauma, anxiety, addiction, grief and emotional isolation. 

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• MYTH - People who die by suicide truly wanted to die because it was their choice. 

• FACT - Many people who die by suicide are not simply choosing death - they are struggling with overwhelming emotional pain, hopelessness, isolation or mental health challenges that make it difficult to see another way forward. Often, what they truly want is relief from the pain they are carrying, not an end to their value, worth or importance. This is why compassion, support, mental health care and safe conversations matter so deeply.