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By: Jamie Thompson
Updated: June 27, 2021
Originally Published: June 26, 2021
Sexuality. Wellness. Eating disorders. Mental health. Over the past eight years, I’ve penned numerous sensitive articles that have not only helped me navigate the complexities of life but also fostered my healing journey. However, one of the topics that resonates most deeply with me is suicide. As a two-time survivor, I feel a strong obligation to share a message of hope and inform others that support is available, and life can get better. Yet, every time I dare to utter the “S word,” my narrative gets overshadowed by trigger warnings. These disclaimers, like “this article discusses suicide” or “viewer discretion is advised,” leave me feeling frustrated and exhausted. To truly combat the stigma surrounding suicide, we must discuss it openly and without fear.
For awareness to flourish, there needs to be a name attached to the story.
Trigger warnings are meant to preemptively alert readers to content that could provoke a strong emotional reaction, as explained by an article on Geek Feminist Wiki. Although they are common in feminist spaces and designed to shield individuals from potentially harmful material, they have become overly commonplace and, frankly, tiresome. They can render important subjects taboo and hinder the vital conversations necessary for suicide prevention.
Speaking about suicide is crucial for reaching those in pain and extending genuine help.
You might wonder why I care so much. Why should I take on this battle? The reality is that suicide affects millions annually. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in 2019, 12 million American adults contemplated suicide, 3.5 million made plans, and 1.4 million attempted it, with over 47,000 lives lost each year. When I awakened on “the other side,” taking a deep breath of life, I recognized the urgency to talk about suicide. I needed to share my journey to reassure others that help and hope exist.
Moreover, trigger warnings are not limited to suicide-related content; they are applied across various topics, effectively gatekeeping information. They can create an environment where certain subjects feel forbidden, which can be damaging for those who have experienced similar traumas.
A 2019 study published in Clinical Psychological Science suggests that trigger warnings might actually do more harm than good. They may not protect individuals from emotional distress; instead, they might exacerbate pain for those who have endured similar experiences. Richard J. McNally, a Harvard psychology professor, has stated that trigger warnings can be “countertherapeutic” since they promote the avoidance of trauma reminders, which may prolong conditions like PTSD.
I don’t believe all trigger warnings are inherently bad. There are instances where they are warranted, such as when discussing the details of a suicide attempt or unexpected topics like sexual abuse during a seemingly unrelated narrative. As writer Katie Bingham-Smith notes, trigger warnings can serve as a protective tool for those who need them.
However, I am weary of others silencing this critical issue and deeming discussions on suicide unimportant. I’m exhausted by the silence surrounding such matters and the notion that my story is too graphic to share. Trigger warnings inadvertently convey that survivors should remain silent about their tragedies.
While I acknowledge the place for trigger warnings, it’s time for us to reevaluate their application. To heal collectively and confront life’s challenges, we must engage in open dialogue.
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Summary:
The article discusses the challenges posed by trigger warnings in conversations about sensitive topics like suicide. The author, a two-time survivor, emphasizes the importance of open dialogue to combat stigma and provide hope to others. While acknowledging the potential benefits of trigger warnings, the piece advocates for a reevaluation of their use to foster healing and connection among those affected by suicide.
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