Yeah I think it would depend on location and many various other factors as the kinds of authorities and their protocol; with some being more lenient or less likely to detain and lock someone up while others are more 'trigger-happy' with institutionalization or even (temporary) detainment. However, yes if nobody (not even one's family or best friend(s), close ones, etc.) knows, then it's likely nothing really happens and one's life resumes as it has been post-attempt (unless crippled or everlasting damage from the attempt).
While I've never really attempted myself (as I know if I'm going to CTB, I am going in 100% and making sure I don't fail or as close to near guaranty of success), I know the potential consequences of failure is too great to risk just attempting without being 100% ready or sure.