By Lesley Kelly, Farmer and Co-Founder of the Do More Agriculture Foundation

Suicide is a growing public health crisis and  impacts people of all ages and backgrounds in Canada. Every year, approximately 4,500 people in Canada die by suicide, which is equivalent to 12 people dying by suicide every day. According to the National Rural Health Association, farmers' suicide rate is 3.5x greater than that observed in the broader population.

Unfortunately, our society often paints suicide the way they would a prison sentence—a permanent situation that brands an individual. However, suicidal ideation is not a brand or a label, it is a sign that an individual is suffering deeply and must seek treatment. And it is falsehoods like these that can prevent people from getting the help they need to get better.

Even though suicide is not predictable, it can be preventable by assessing social, cultural and environmental risk factors. Myths and misconceptions about mental health shape people’s beliefs and attitudes about suicide, which could be a major barrier to seeking help for themselves and their loved ones.

Debunking the common myths associated with suicide can help society and the agriculture industry realize the importance of helping others seek treatment and show individuals the importance of addressing their mental health challenges.

Here are some of the most common myths and facts about suicide.

#1) Talking about suicide or asking someone if they feel suicidal will encourage suicide attempts

Fact: Talking about suicide provides the opportunity for communication. Fears shared are more likely to diminish. The first step in encouraging a person with thoughts of suicide to live comes from talking about those feelings. A simple inquiry about whether or not the person is intending to end their life can start the conversation.

#2) Suicide attempts or deaths happen without warning

Fact: The survivors of a suicide often say that the intention was hidden from them. Unfortunately, it is more likely that the intention was just not recognized.

#3) All people with thoughts of suicide are depressed

Fact: While depression is a contributory factor in most suicides, it need not be present for a person to attempt or die by suicide. It is unlikely those who do not have the predisposing conditions (for example, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, substance abuse, feeling of rejection, rage, emotional pain and anger) will die by suicide.

#4) Suicide can't be prevented

Fact: Suicide can be preventable yet it is also unpredictable. Most people who contemplate suicide, often experience intense emotional pain, hopelessness and have a negative view of life or their futures. Suicide is a product of genes, mental health illnesses and environmental risk factors. 

#5) People who take their own lives are selfish, cowards or weak

Fact: People do not die of suicide by choice. Often, people who die of suicide experience significant emotional pain and find it difficult to consider different views or see a way out of their situation. Even though the reasons behind suicide are quite complex, frequently suicide is associated with a predisposed condition.

#6) Barriers to bridges, safe firearm storage and other actions to reduce access to lethal methods of suicide don't work

Fact: Limiting access to lethal means, such as firearms, is one of the simplest strategies to decrease the chances of suicide. Many suicide attempts are a result of impulsive decisions. Therefore, separating someone from a lethal means could provide a person some time to think before doing harm to themselves.

As a industry, we should not be afraid to speak up about suicide, to speak up about mental illness or to seek out treatment for an individual who is in need. Eliminating the stigma starts by understanding why suicide occurs and advocating for mental health awareness within our communities. There are suicide hotlines, mental health support groups, online community resources and many mental health professionals who can help any individual who is struggling with unhealthy thoughts and emotions.

If you or someone you care about is struggling with their mental health and you’re not sure what to do, we’ve got you. Reach out and call the Saskatchewan Farm Stress Line at 1-800-667-4442 for advice on how to support them and look after yourself too.