This study highlights the significant role of public perceptions surrounding suicide methods, specifically hanging, in influencing their adoption. The research reveals that the perceived ease of execution and the anticipated nature of death by hanging are key drivers for its consideration as a suicide method. Hanging is often mistakenly seen as a quick, readily available, and ‘clean’ solution for individuals facing distress and difficulties. Conversely, individuals who reject hanging as a method often hold negative views about it, which act as deterrents, even when they might otherwise consider it a viable option. These findings offer valuable insights into crafting effective messages to reduce the appeal of hanging as a suicide method. For instance, prevention efforts could focus on disseminating accurate information about the reality of hanging, challenging the misconceptions of it being a hygienic and rapid method, and raising awareness about the potential for severe neurological damage in cases of survival. Reference Gunnell, Bennewith, Hawton, Simkin and Kapur5 Furthermore, messaging could target the intense emotional responses associated with hanging, emphasizing the profound impact on family members who may discover the body of a loved one, and the distressing physical appearance of the body post-hanging.
The research also indicates that impulsive behavior and easy access to means can override personal perceptions and preferences regarding suicide methods. This underscores the critical need to restrict access to hanging materials, particularly in institutional environments. The study further uncovered that individuals’ perceptions of the knowledge and skill required to carry out a suicide method are also important factors in their considerations of access. Therefore, limiting access at a community level could be achieved by highlighting the complexities and potential failures associated with attempting to implement hanging effectively.
Preventing suicide, especially by hanging, is a complex challenge. Messages designed to deter some individuals might inadvertently provide information that could be misused by others, potentially making attempts more lethal. For example, emphasizing the difficulties of successful hanging could prompt some individuals to seek out detailed instructions, ironically increasing the lethality of their attempt. This dilemma extends beyond hanging; the study notes an instance where a patient learned about the lethal dosage of their prescribed medication during a consultation intended to prevent self-harm. Future in-depth research is crucial to develop and assess the effectiveness of information-based interventions in this sensitive area. At a broader societal level, the challenge lies in creating subtle, indirect messaging that can gradually shift public understanding and knowledge about suicide methods. This might involve incorporating realistic, yet non-sensationalized, portrayals of hanging in popular media, news reports, and other public platforms, moving away from past sensationalist reporting. Another avenue could involve clinicians engaging in conversations with suicidal individuals about their chosen method, exploring the reasons behind their choice. Subtle cues, like repeatedly clicking fingers, might indicate an intention to use a highly lethal method such as hanging. Further investigation is needed to validate existing perceptions surrounding hanging, and to thoroughly explore the origins of these perceptions, as well as the diverse range of knowledge sources that influence individuals planning a suicide attempt.
