Dear Editor:

After reading “[PHILOSOPHICALLY SPEAKING] The benefits of thinking about death” I want to respond to some of what the column addressed.

Life should be lived to the fullest. As we are often reminded, the time that humans spend on earth is limited. However, considering our mortality can be a slippery slope. Especially if the wrong person gets stuck on these thoughts. According to Mental Health America, thinking excessively about death can lead to or worsen suicidal thoughts and anxiousness. We especially need to be careful in encouraging pondering of things like death around our youth. A study from the American Psychological Association says that in the years leading up to the pandemic, patterns of suicidal behaviors in young people increased by 40%. Yes, gratitude for life often prompts positive changes, but I disagree that the only way to find it is by realizing how quickly it could end.

Appreciation for life can be found in the things that bring us joy day to day. Endorsing the idea that thinking of death will ultimately improve your life is dangerous, especially in a stress-charged school setting. Providing a disclaimer/warning in an article like this would allow it to reach only the people who can safely appreciate the benefits of thinking about death.

Sincerely,
Lina Abid