The digital age has brought about new ways to discuss sensitive topics, but it has also introduced new challenges. On TikTok, a platform teeming with discussions about mental health, the word “suicide” has become virtually unspoken. In its place, a euphemism has emerged: “unalive.” This article delves into the reasons behind this linguistic shift, exploring the impact of TikTok’s content moderation policies and the broader implications of substituting direct language with coded terms when discussing suicide and mental health.

TikTok’s Content Moderation and the Rise of “Unalive”

In the wake of a tragic incident involving a graphic suicide video circulating on the platform, TikTok implemented stricter content moderation policies. While aimed at preventing harmful content, these policies have inadvertently led to the widespread adoption of euphemisms like “unalive” to circumvent potential censorship. Hashtags like #unalivemeplease, #unaliving, and #unaliveawareness have amassed millions of views, highlighting the prevalence of this coded language. Conversely, searching for #suicide or #suicideawareness directs users to a crisis helpline, effectively silencing direct conversations about the topic. While well-intentioned, this approach raises concerns about the chilling effect on open discussions about suicide prevention and mental health support.

The Evolution of “Unalive”: From Comic Book to Code Word

While the term “unalive” originated in a 2013 episode of Ultimate Spider-Man, its recent surge in popularity is directly linked to its usage on TikTok. Google searches for the term spiked dramatically in 2022, demonstrating its rapid spread across social media platforms like Twitter and Reddit. Content creators, including YouTubers, have also adopted the term to avoid demonetization. Depending on context, “unalive” can refer to suicide, murder, or death, making its meaning ambiguous and potentially problematic.

The Double-Edged Sword of Euphemism: Community Building vs. Stigma Reinforcement

While “unalive” allows users to discuss difficult topics without triggering automatic content removal, its use raises complex questions. On one hand, it facilitates community building, allowing individuals struggling with suicidal thoughts to connect with others and share resources. On the other hand, critics argue that substituting direct language reinforces the stigma surrounding suicide, making it harder to address openly and honestly. The reliance on coded language suggests that “suicide” remains a taboo topic, hindering efforts to normalize conversations about mental health and seek help.

The Impact on Mental Health Discourse: A Clinical Perspective

Prianka Padmanathan, a clinical academic in psychiatry at the University of Bristol, conducted a 2019 study on language use and suicide. Her research revealed that terms like “attempted suicide,” “took their own life,” and “died by suicide” were considered the most acceptable when discussing suicidal behavior. The use of euphemisms, while potentially well-intentioned, can obfuscate the issue and make it more difficult for individuals to access the support they need.

The Need for Open and Honest Dialogue: Balancing Safety and Support

The rise of “unalive” highlights the tension between protecting vulnerable users and fostering open dialogue about suicide prevention. While TikTok’s content moderation policies aim to prevent harm, they also risk silencing important conversations. Finding a balance between safety and support requires a nuanced approach that allows for honest discussions about suicide while mitigating the risks of harmful content. This could involve refining algorithms to differentiate between harmful content and genuine attempts to seek help or offer support, as well as providing more accessible resources for users struggling with suicidal ideation.

Conclusion: Breaking the Silence

The substitution of “suicide” with “unalive” on TikTok underscores the complexities of discussing mental health in the digital age. While euphemisms may provide a temporary workaround for content moderation policies, they ultimately hinder open and honest dialogue about suicide prevention. Moving forward, it’s crucial to find ways to facilitate safe and supportive online spaces where individuals can discuss their struggles without fear of censorship or judgment. This requires a collaborative effort between social media platforms, mental health organizations, and users themselves to create a more compassionate and understanding online environment. Breaking the silence surrounding suicide requires embracing direct language and fostering a culture where seeking help is normalized, not stigmatized. Only then can we effectively address the mental health crisis and provide support to those who need it most.