Being a psychology major who cares deeply about mental health, I cannot stand to read things that in any way glamorize suicide.
Millions of Americans battle with thoughts of suicide each year. Sadly, too many lose that battle and take their own lives. Mental health is a serious topic that should involve serious dialogue rather than glamorization.
American society has burdened mental healthcare with a taboo. Seeking help for mental issues is frowned upon and even considered an act of weakness. When people complain to others about having issues ranging from depression to anxiety and bipolar disorder, they are simply told to just deal with it – that there isn’t anything wrong with them.
Lacking proper access to mental healthcare, and actively being discouraged from seeking it, many people are unable to cope and end up hurting others or themselves.
Many people experience thoughts of suicide, or may be in a depressive state where they believe that suicide may be the only answer. Some of these individuals do experience a reluctance to seek help through therapy or counseling.
I believe that many of the people who decide to take their own life could have been helped at some time before making such a decision. This is not to say that none of these people have sought help for their issues. Indeed, many people go to therapy and take drugs but don’t seem to improve. Therapy and other forms of mental healthcare should be wholly encouraged and not frowned upon.
I all too often see Tumblr posts and tweets glamorizing suicide and tendencies toward self-harm as if they are some type of admirable act.
What are people with suicidal thoughts supposed to think when they see things like this?
Generally, these images encourage viewers to accomplish the same.
The Internet continues to glamorize celebrities who have committed suicide, like Marilyn Monroe. I attribute her newfound popularity among teenagers as originating from a romantic notion of suicide. Psychological studies have provided evidence indicating that people view others as admirable, heroic, following their suicide.
Where is this romanticizing coming from? Is the internet making suicide trendy?
Mental healthcare is something that I take very seriously.
While I would love to say that everyone who needs help is able to find it, this is sadly not the case.
The mental healthcare system, in general, needs more attention.
We all have depressive episodes and moods, but if these persist, we should not be discouraged from talking to someone and getting help.
If you, or a friend, are experiencing thoughts of suicide, do not be afraid to ask for help. There is nothing glamorous about suicide.
Carl Case is a senior psychology and Spanish double major from Brookhaven.
