Understanding Suicide: Myths, Warning Signs, and How to Truly Help

In this episode, mental health advocate Mark Henick joins us to challenge the most common myths and misconceptions about suicide. Drawing from his lived experience and his globally renowned TED Talk “Why We Choose Suicide”, Mark explains why stigma, misinformation, and silence prevent people from getting the help they need.

We tackle harmful beliefs such as “suicide is selfish,” “you can’t stop someone who wants to die,” and “it comes out of nowhere,” and instead reveal the real warning signs, the truth about suicidal thoughts, and how anyone can play a role in suicide prevention.

This is a candid, compassionate, and practical conversation for anyone who has been touched by suicide or wants to better understand how to support those struggling.

If you’ve ever wondered what’s true, what’s false, and how you can make a difference, this episode is for you.

Primary Topics Covered:

• Why suicide myths persist and how they harm prevention efforts
• The difference between wanting to die vs. wanting to end emotional pain
• Why calling suicide “selfish” is not only wrong but harmful
• The real warning signs that often go unnoticed
• How stigma and silence make it harder for people to reach out
• Why prior suicide attempts must always be taken seriously
• How empathy, listening, and connection can save lives

Timestamps:

00:54 – Suicide in the headlines and rising rates
 02:26 – Mark Henick introduces suicide myths and misconceptions
 03:02 – Do suicidal people really want to die?
 03:50 – Is suicide selfish? Mark’s personal perspective
 05:11 – Survivor guilt and why loved ones often miss the signs
 06:39 – The myth of “out of the blue” suicides
 07:50 – Recognizing subtle warning signs
 08:37 – Is suicide impulsive? The truth about planning and triggers
 09:58 – Why prior attempts must always be taken seriously
 10:58 – Are people “just seeking attention”?
 12:21 – Can you really stop someone from dying by suicide?
 13:50 – Why conversations and connection matter
 14:51 – Mark’s message: You have more power than you think to build a better life

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