Typically, stigmatized identities (having a mental illness/attempted suicide) are kept secret as a way to evade discrimination and potential discovery of their behavior (this is called "self-stigma"), however, secrecy can result in extreme distress, as well as negative cognitive and behavioral consequences such as anxiety, depression, shame, and social isolation. 

University of Illinois at Chicago

Based on current research studies, anticipated suicide stigma and secrecy about one's suicidal behavior can contribute to increased suicidality (includes both suicidal ideations and actual suicide attempts) among suicide attempt survivors, as well as those living with a mental illness. 

Suicide stigma and secrecy can contribute to increased suicidality

Mayer, L., Rüsch, N., Frey, L. M., Nadorff, M. R., Drapeau, C. W., Sheehan, L., & Oexle, N. (2020). Anticipated suicide stigma, secrecy, and suicidality among suicide attempt survivors. Suicide and Life‐Threatening Behavior, 50(3), 706-713.

Anticipated suicide stigma, secrecy, and suicidality among suicide attempt survivors

Secrecy about one's suicidal behavior can increase distress and suicidality

The Three-Step Theory of Suicide (Klonsky & May 2015) outlines the conditions under which suicide attempts occur. According to this theory, suicidality results from a combination of hopelessness, pain, connectedness, and capability for suicide. Both anticipated suicide stigma and secrecy about suicide attempt could increase distress and diminish social connectedness among suicide attempt survivors and consequently contribute to suicidality. 

Three-Step Theory of Suicide (Klonsky & May 2015)

Suicide stigma, as a whole, has its roots in 3 different social biases:
- Stereotypes 
- Prejudice 
- Discrimination 

Suicide stigma has its origin in Stereotypes, prejudice, and discrimination towards those who have a mental illness/attempted suicide

According to a study published in the British Journal of Psychiatry, 83% of participants were aware of the stigma with mental illness and suicide and had problems seeking help. Only 54% of participants had talked about their suicidal ideations with their family and peers.

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