Mindful language urged to avoid suicide stigma

Ayra Wang

A student suicide concern group criticized a scholar from the Life Education Centre for referring to student suicides as "doing a dumb thing."

The group urged society to be mindful of their language when discussing such sensitive issues.

The comments came after Ricky Tse Heung-wing, head of the Life Education Centre at Nang Yan College of Higher Education, suggested that students would not act foolishly if they considered social responsibility and parental expectations.

This statement was made during the announcement of a student suicide survey report last Friday.

Tse apologized two days later, on Sunday, for his choice of words, admitting that phrases like "doing a dumb thing" and "make light of life" were inappropriate.

Heather Yeung Hoi-tung, an advocate from the Hong Kong Student Alliance on Student Suicide, condemned Tse's remarks for overlooking the complexities of students' struggles with suicidal thoughts.

She said such language stigmatizes suicide and can harm vulnerable students.

"Individuals experiencing suicidal thoughts are in significant pain. It's unfair to dismiss their experiences as mere foolishness," Yeung said, adding many students feel blamed by such terminology.

She also criticized Tse for implying that students should prioritize others' feelings, particularly their parents'.

Yeung said research indicates that family pressure is among the leading factors contributing to student stress.

"Often, students value others' needs over their own, neglecting their own well-being," she said.

"I hope this incident serves as a reminder for everyone to choose their words carefully when discussing student suicides, fostering a supportive environment for those in need."

Paul Yip Siu-fai, director of the Centre for Suicide Research and Prevention at the University of Hong Kong, stressed the importance of extending empathy toward students facing difficulties.

He added that about 30 percent of students who died by suicide left behind notes, many apologizing for not meeting their families' expectations.

He encouraged the public to engage directly with those in distress, advising against negative judgments.

ayra.wang@singtaonewscorp.com