Stop Putting Trigger Warnings on My Life

Sexuality, wellness, eating disorders, and mental health—over the last eight years, I have penned numerous sensitive pieces that have aided my healing journey through life’s complexities. However, one topic that resonates deeply with me is suicide. As a two-time survivor, it’s crucial for me to convey messages of hope, letting others know that help exists and that life can improve. Yet, every time I dare to utter the “S word,” my narrative is overshadowed by a trigger warning, such as “this article discusses suicide” or “viewer discretion is advised.” I am weary of this ongoing battle. The only way to raise awareness and dismantle the stigma surrounding suicide is to discuss it openly and honestly.

Understanding Trigger Warnings

To foster understanding, we must share names and stories. Trigger warnings are brief statements that precede articles or video content, intended to shield individuals with severe emotional responses from encountering distressing subjects unexpectedly, as noted by Geek Feminist Wiki. While they are commonplace in feminist and safe spaces, these warnings have become clichéd and exhausting. They contribute to the taboo status of critical issues, hampering valuable conversations essential for suicide prevention.

The Importance of Addressing Suicide

Addressing suicide is vital if we are to make a difference and reach those in pain. You might wonder why I care so much—this isn’t necessarily my fight. But the reality is that suicide impacts millions annually. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 12 million U.S. adults seriously considered suicide in 2019, with 3.5 million making plans, 1.4 million attempting it, and 47,500 lives lost to suicide each year. When I awoke on “the other side,” I felt compelled to speak out about my experience, to share hope and support.

Moreover, trigger warnings extend beyond suicide prevention articles and often restrict access to content. They can label certain topics as forbidden, which can adversely affect those who have survived similar traumas. A 2019 study published in Clinical Psychological Science suggests that trigger warnings may be more harmful than beneficial, as they do not truly shield individuals from pain but can compound the suffering of those with past traumas. Richard J. McNally, a Harvard psychology professor, argues in a 2016 New York Times article that trigger warnings can be counterproductive, as they promote avoidance of trauma reminders, which may exacerbate PTSD.

Finding a Balance

That said, I don’t believe all trigger warnings are inherently negative. If I were to share details of my attempts, a warning would be necessary. Graphic depictions of suicide can be damaging, as can unexpected shifts in topics, such as discussing sexual abuse in the context of a child’s birthday. As writer Katie Bingham-Smith points out, trigger warnings can serve as tools for individuals to prepare and protect themselves, which is sometimes essential.

However, I am exhausted by the tendency to silence discussions about suicide, as if it is a topic that should be ignored. I am tired of the stigma and the notion that my experiences are too graphic or inappropriate for discussion. Trigger warnings inadvertently convey to survivors that their stories are excessive, suggesting they should simply remain silent.

A Call for Open Dialogue

While I see the value in trigger warnings, it’s time to reconsider their application. If we are to heal collectively and confront life’s challenges, we must engage in open dialogue.

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Summary:

This article discusses the author’s frustration with trigger warnings, particularly in relation to the sensitive topic of suicide. The writer emphasizes the importance of open dialogue to combat stigma and raise awareness. While acknowledging the potential benefits of trigger warnings, they argue that the current use often silences necessary conversations and reinforces taboos surrounding critical issues. The piece calls for a reevaluation of how trigger warnings are applied to enhance understanding and healing.