Dbt Quote by Marsha M. Linehan
““The desire to commit suicide, however, has at its base a belief that life cannot or will not improve. Although that may be the case in some instances, it is not true in all instances. Death, however, rules out hope in all instances. We do not have any data indicating that people who are dead lead better lives.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Cognitive Behavior Therapy for Borderline Personality Disorder, Marsha M. Linehan, 1993
The quote argues that suicidal thoughts stem from a belief that life cannot improve, but this belief is not universally true; death eliminates any possibility of future hope.
In simple terms: Suicidal thoughts often arise from believing life won’t get better, but that isn’t always correct.
Key Takeaway
Recognize that hope remains possible even when things feel hopeless.
Themes
mental health
hope
suicide prevention
Mood
reflective
empathetic
Type
advice
philosophical
motivational
When to use this quote
- therapy sessions
- crisis hotlines
- support groups
- personal reflection
Key Concepts
cognitive distortion
existential hope
risk assessment
Questions to Reflect On
- What evidence can you find that your situation could improve?
- How might you create a small change that restores hope?
A Different Perspective
Hope may be hard to see during severe depression, making the message less persuasive to those in crisis.
