Hi, I'm Dr. Ellen Hendrickson, and welcome to episode 34 of the savvy psychologist.

I'll help you meet life's challenges with evidence-based research, a sympathetic ear, and zero judgment.

We'll use the best of psychology to help you be happy, healthy, and most importantly, yourself.

The media frenzy is starting to settle after the tragic suicide of Robin Williams.

Some of the

side of Robin Williams. Some of the coverage I was happy to see was sensitive and compassionate,

but some was just plain irresponsible,

sensationalistic, and full of specific details,

all of which can put vulnerable others at risk and perpetuate

misinformation. So this week on the savvy psychologist, we'll set right seven myths about suicide.

Myth number one, people who attempt suicide are just trying to get attention.

It's a cry for help.

Fact.

Most individuals who attempt or complete suicide, over 90% in fact, are suffering

from a mental illness. Depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, alcoholism, drug dependence, or often a combination, can set the stage for suicide.

And even though his sobriety was intact, Robin Williams was reportedly suffering from severe depression.

So framing suicide as a method to get attention paints those who are sick as manipulative

when in fact they're simply really ill. And in addition, even if a

suicide attempt is a cry for help, it means they need help, so help.

Myth number two, suicide is selfish.

Fact.

Suicide is a horrible thing for a family to be left to deal with,

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