Myths about Inmate Suicide Continued

A recent study shows that there are 80 suicide attempts for every fatal suicide within correctional facilities. While a former suicide attempt is a red flag for another, the reality is that most inmates who die by suicide are not on suicide watch when they take their own life.

Myth: Talking about suicide with an inmate increases the chances that they will act on it.

Fact: Talking about suicide often reduces rather than increases suicidal ideation.

Many experts believe that you cannot make a person suicidal or put the idea in their head if it was not there before. It can be a great source of relief for people to talk about considering suicide. There is an improved chance that a person will seek help if they talk about it.

Opening the conversation helps people to discover an alternate view of their existing circumstances. If a person is depressed, particularly in a custodial setting, it is good to bluntly ask if they are thinking about suicide. Jailers shouldn’t hesitate to start the conversation if they see that an inmate may be depressed.

Also learn more in Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, Part 4, Part 5, Part 6, Part 7, Part 8, Part 9, Part 10, Part 11, Part 12, Part 13, Part 14, Part 15, Part 16, Part 17, Part 18, Part 19, Part 20, and Part 21 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