What counts as a "real" suicide attempt?

[ArteriesBindEveryon]

Something I've been wondering about for a long time is if I've ever truly attempted suicide. I've put a belt around my neck multiple times to try and hang myself only to fail due to not having the willpower to fully go through with it. Is it truly an attempt if I am the one who ends up stopping it, or does it only count if I fail due to outside interference? Genuinely curious what the rest of you think as I'm unaware if there's a scientific definition or anything like that.

 

[ummagumma]

well, in my humble opinion, the "real" suicide attempt is when you really tried to do something with yourself with an intent to die, but others or fate saved you (like you vomited or the rope broke). or also if you did something, but changed your mind and called an ambulance

plans and repetitions of suicide are more like suicidal ideation to me

but im not trying to invalidate your experience! putting a belt around your neck is still pretty serious and fucked up

 

[EmptyBottle]

imo an CTB attempt is an action taken to intentionally stop existing (with the intention of achieving death), even if that action is cancelled by the same person (eg because the process doesn't seem to be working, or they decided to stop for any other reason)

 

[Jadeith]

I'm unaware if there's a scientific definition or anything like that.

AFAIK there isn't. Try to define "unreal" attempt as opposite of "real" one. Sometimes such discussion takes kinda silly turn when those who like to "test" their method, start arguing whose attempt was more real than other. My opinion quite similar to others here. You either attempt or you don't. Attempt is when you intentionally tried to kill yourself but failed, be it due to equipment malfunction, body being stubborn (poison vomit i.e.), being prematurely discovered or last minute decision to call of the Reaper, for example due to severe SI response. "Test drives" like inhaling pure nitrogen and observing if and when one becomes dizzy or passes out but with failsafes in place and without intent to actually end one's life, do not imho count as "attempt".