This can include time spent with others, check-in points with significant adults and plans for the future. Myth A promise to keep a note unopened and unread should always be kept. Where the potential for harm, or actual harm, is disclosed then confidentiality cannot be maintained. A sealed note with the request for the note not to be opened is a very strong indicator that something is seriously amiss. A sealed note is a late sign in the progression towards suicide.
Myth Attempted or completed suicides happen without warning.
Those close to a person who has completed suicide often say that the intention was hidden from them. It is more likely that the intention was not recognised. If a person attempts suicide and survives, they will never make a further attempt. Fact A suicide attempt is regarded as an indicator of further attempts. It is likely that the level of danger will increase with each further suicide attempt.