The death of comic-actor Robin Williams was a call for education about suicide. Approximately 100 people commit suicide per day in the United States. Dispelling myths is job No. 1 . Myth 1: If you ask someone if they are having suicidal thoughts, you might prompt them to commit suicide. Fact: Asking about suicidal thoughts is the first step toward help. Myth 2: Life is precious, so being suicidal means your psychotic or out of touch with reality. Fact: Suicidal persons are in a state of "being overwhelmed" or in pain that is caused by depression, grief, despair, trauma, or other life circumstances. Typically, suicidal persons can state the reasons they feel suicidal. Myth 3: Persons who talk about committing suicide are trying to manipulate others. Fact: Suicidal persons want the pain to stop, and most who do commit suicide said or did something prior to doing so that indicated their need for help.