Contagion Quote by Suzanne Young
““Suicide is a behavioral contagion. It's old adage "If all your friends jumped off a bridge, then would you, too?" Apparently, the answer is yes.””
About This Quote
Source Article: Psychology Today, Suicide Contagion, 2018
The quote warns that suicidal behavior can spread like a contagion, similar to peer pressure, suggesting that exposure increases risk.
In simple terms: Suicide can spread through social influence, like a contagious idea.
Key Takeaway
Be mindful of how suicide is discussed publicly.
Themes
mental health
contagion
social influence
risk factors
Mood
empathetic
informative
Type
educational
preventive
When to use this quote
- school counseling
- online forums
- support groups
- media reporting
Key Concepts
psychology
public health
media impact
Questions to Reflect On
- What safeguards can reduce harmful influence?
- How can media responsibly report suicide?
A Different Perspective
Not all exposure leads to contagion; protective factors matter.
