Jordan has witnessed the highest suicide rate in 2016, according to the annual report of the Environmental Health Directorate.

Last year, 117 people took their own lives by drinking poison, hanging themselves, shooting themselves, burning themselves alive or jumping off of buildings and bridges.

Out of the 117 victims, 91 were men and 26 were women.

The number of suicides has risen significantly over the years: in 2011, only 39 people committed suicide. However, that number jumped to 86 cases in 2012, 108 cases in 2013, then dropped to 100 cases 2014 before rising to 113 cases in 2015.

In a first of its kind report, the World Health Organization (WHO) released a report in 2014 discussing the myths surrounding suicide in Jordan.

The report pointed out that many people believe that “those who talk about wanting to take their own lives ‘don’t really mean it,’ when in fact they are most likely looking for support and help with their depression and anxiety.”

The second myth says that “most suicides happen suddenly without prior warning.” The truth is, there are certain signs and behaviours leading up to the incident that play as clues and warning signs that a person might be feeling suicidal.

Another myth claims that “those who feel suicidal are often determined to die,” when the reality is, they are hanging in the balance between life and death.

A fourth myth believes that “once a person has suicidal thoughts, they will always think that way.” The reality is that most suicidal thoughts come to the person’s mind when they are going through a rough time: they are temporary.

Another myth claims that “only those with psychological issues commit suicide.” Feeling suicidal is not necessarily linked to someone’s psychological state. Those thinking of committing suicide are usually “deeply unhappy” and not necessarily mentally ill.

The last myth believes that “talking openly about suicide is a bad idea and might encourage that person to end their life.” However, talking to a suicidal person about their feelings can open their eyes to other choices and give time to rethink their decision.