Suicide awareness and the dangers of words

Suicide is a profoundly serious issue, one that should never be taken lightly. For those who have faced the temptation of death themselves, it is not some distant or abstract concept; it’s a very real, very raw experience that can leave lasting scars. In facing that darkness, one understands just how fragile life can be, and how important it is to choose our words carefully, recognizing the power they hold.

There is never a situation, never a moment or context, where it is acceptable to tell someone to kill themselves. Not as a joke, not in the heat of an argument, not as a comment about someone’s beliefs, their politics, or their way of life. When a life is lost, it’s gone forever, and the ripple effects of that loss are vast, impacting family, friends, and communities. Each life has worth beyond measure, and each person deserves to feel that their life matters.

The atmosphere surrounding this election has brought an intense surge of anxiety and division to the surface. We’ve seen a polarization that has left people feeling isolated, defensive, and, in some cases, deeply threatened by those who hold opposing views. It’s no exaggeration to say that the choices presented to our nation have felt, for many, like choosing between two of the worst possible options. The disillusionment and frustration have been palpable, and I’ve spoken about this before, because I believe it’s important to acknowledge the emotional weight that many are carrying.

Recently, an Oregon State staff member went viral for making a statement suggesting that anyone who voted a certain way should take their own life. This is not only wrong, it’s appalling and dangerous. Such statements reflect a deep lack of empathy and a shocking disregard for human life. He is not simply expressing an opinion—he is promoting harm, and in doing so, he becomes part of the problem. The issue is not the voters, or the fact that people have different political beliefs; the issue lies with those who are so willing to dehumanize others and dismiss the value of their lives.

If you ever tell someone to take their own life, then you are part of the problem. Period. It’s not about whether you agree with them or not. It’s about understanding that no one has the right to tell someone else that they don’t deserve to live. This kind of language is never justified, and no excuse or rationale can validate it. To wish someone harm in this way is not only morally wrong—it’s deeply irresponsible.

The thing is, people who are suffering often carry their pain in silence. They may be struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, or feelings of hopelessness, but they put on a brave face, hiding their wounds from the world. When someone is already on the edge, dealing with inner battles that we may not be able to see, a single cruel remark, a single suggestion that they don’t belong here, can be the thing that pushes them over. If we choose to use our words to hurt rather than heal, and if those words lead someone to harm themselves, then we bear a responsibility for that outcome. We carry that weight. We hold that guilt. We are the problem.

It’s time to remember that each of us has a choice in how we treat others. In this climate of division, anger, and fear, we need to be more compassionate, more mindful of the struggles others may be facing. Telling someone to end their life is not just crossing a line—it’s a fundamental betrayal of our shared humanity. We all need to do better.