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Hey Walmart, Suicide Is Not a Costume
Walmart seems to think suicide is a punchline rather than a tragedy. This year, their Halloween section features a latex prosthetic labeled “Razor Blade Suicide Scar Wound Latex Costume Make Up,” courtesy of Totally Costumes. The advertisement showcases two deep, gory wounds, and even includes a hand gripping a razor blade (not included). The occasion? “Party,” of course.
According to the product description, this accessory is meant to “complete your undead theme.”
One reviewer, who expressed their outrage before the comment was deleted, summed it up perfectly: “I am appalled that you would think of making this a costume. Suicide is not a joke.” Bravo, reviewer! Walmart should definitely be more aware. Suicide is the second leading cause of death among those aged 10 to 34, and the fourth among those aged 35 to 54. In 2014 alone, 42,773 people in the U.S. took their own lives, based on CDC statistics. For every completed suicide, 25 others attempt it. Although wrist cutting is less common, a significant number of the nearly half a million hospital visits for self-harm involve this method. The American Society for Suicide Prevention estimates that around one million Americans attempt suicide each year—that’s 1 in 33 people. Disturbing, right?
With approximately 117 suicides happening daily in the U.S., each one leaves behind heartbroken families grappling with the aftermath. Many of these suicides affect adult children and grandchildren, too.
Let’s be clear: suicide is not a joke, and it certainly isn’t a costume. Joking about zombies, chainsaws, or bloody swords? Sure, go ahead—but don’t trivialize the pain of those who have suffered from mental anguish. It’s a slap in the face to those who have made the heartbreaking choice to end their lives, leaving loved ones devastated.
This costume also disrespects the countless Americans dealing with mental illness. Per the Kim Foundation, around 26.2% of adults suffer from a diagnosable mental disorder every year, with over 90% of suicides linked to such disorders. As someone who has grappled with depression and suicidal thoughts myself, I find this product infuriating. To see my struggles commodified as a Halloween costume is nauseating.
For $3.99, plus $5.25 shipping, this disgraceful item could be yours, or you can purchase it from another seller for an additional $2. It’s chilling to think about how many of these were initially stocked and who might be purchasing them to mock real pain.
Walmart is meant to be a family-friendly store, and this costume clearly misses that mark. It’s an insult to families affected by suicide and mental illness. If Walmart wants to uphold its reputation, it should remove this product and apologize. But I won’t be holding my breath.
Update: Walmart’s media team reached out to inform us that they found this costume unacceptable and have removed it from their marketplace after it was flagged.
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In summary, Walmart’s attempt at humor through a costume linked to suicide is not only in poor taste, but it also trivializes the struggles of mental illness and the real pain endured by many. Awareness and sensitivity surrounding such issues should always take precedence.