Discusses how some physicians inadequately handle potential suicides. 5 common fallacies held by potential helpers are pointed out & are countered by case examples. These fallacies are: that attempted suicide is a failure to complete suicide; that someone threatening suicide will not attempt suicide; that people who attempt will never commit suicide; that lethality of an attempt indicates degree of intent, & that hypnotics (used in some attempts) should be regularly presribed for depression.