Myths about Inmate Suicide

The most common method of successful suicide in correctional institutions is hanging. It takes as little as 5 minutes for an inmate to hang himself and die without a chance of being revived. The first two myths are specifically related to hanging.

Myth: There is No Need to Intervene in a Hanging—It’s Lethal!

Fact: People often survive hanging themselves in a suicide attempt

Several factors determine how quickly a person dies from hanging himself or herself. The height of the drop during the hanging is a factor. Also, is the body fully or partially suspended? Because inmates have little chance for a great height or for full body suspension, their possibility of survival is greatly increased. Early intervention is crucial, however.

One study found that even if the victim is found without a pulse, aggressive intervention with cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and emergency transport to a hospital is warranted.

Another study found that overall mortality associated with suicide by hanging was 33%. There was a low rate of severe functional disability among those who survived suicide by hanging and were admitted to a hospital.

Also learn more in Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, Part 4, Part 5, Part 6, Part 7, Part 8, Part 9, Part 10, and Part 11 of this continuing series.

Providing help to inmates now or formerly detained in a Texas municipal or county jail is one of the purposes of this website. There is never an intention of implying that misdeeds have occurred on the part of individuals or institutions.

–Guest Contributor