Wuhan Yangtze River Suicide Photo
The photo of a woman standing on the edge of the Wuhan Yangtze River in early 2020 went viral on social media, claiming to be a suicide. It has since been evaluated by experts around the world to determine if the image is real or not.
The image has been shared by users of the popular Chinese micro-blogging platform Weibo and on Twitter. According to some social media users, the woman’s identity was a 28-year-old woman from Wuhan, the city in central China where the deadly coronavirus was first detected in late 2019.
According to multiple news reports, some experts have suggested that the picture is most likely a fake, because it does not look like a suicide attempt. Furthermore, there have been no reports of a a female in Wuhan who had committed suicide in that area.
One expert, Professor Li Yizhong at Wuhan University, expressed his doubts that the photo was real. He said the woman’s facial expression is too calm compared to the usual expressions of someone who is about to take their own life. He further noted that the angle of the photo is too good for it to be real.
A professional photographer, Chen Yiming, also weighed in on the debate over the photo, claiming it was definitely a fake. He pointed out that the woman doesn’t seem to be struggling against any force, which would be an indication that she was not actually attempting suicide. Furthermore, the lighting in the photo looks like it must have been manipulated.
Despite experts’ doubts about the authenticity of this photo, there have been those who have argued that it is indeed a real suicide attempt. The former executive director of a China-based mental health organization, Shi Yu, believes it could be true. He believes the woman’s expression, though calm, could still be interpreted as depressed or resigned. He also argues that the angle of the photo could have been taken to make it more dramatic.
The Psychological Implication
Mental health experts warn that while the authenticity of the photo is still up for debate, the message it sends is still very real. This type of image is concerning due to its potential to glamorize suicide, making it more appealing and acceptable. In a society that is already facing huge mental health issues, exhibiting this type of behaviour could further impact people who are vulnerable.
In China, suicide is the 8th leading cause of death, accounting for about 300,000 cases per year. However, experts and researchers argue that this number could be much higher as many suicides are not properly documented. Many mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and stress, often go undiagnosed and untreated.
Shi Yu stresses the importance of taking mental health issues seriously and giving people a safe environment to communicate their feelings. He believes that stigma surrounding depression and other mental health ailments can sometimes be more damaging than the actual illness. He concludes that the social media culture, if not nurtured and managed properly, can act as a catalyst for mental health problems.
The Speculation on The Photographer
Due to the controversial nature of the photo, some have speculated whether the photographer might be motivated by money, fame, or just a desire to go viral. A professor of psychology at Beijing Normal University, Qian Xinggho, believes the most likely explanation is that the photographer was motivated by notoriety. She explains that someone who takes risks and exploits people’s vulnerabilities for the purpose of going viral is more likely to have an unhealthy and impulsive mindset.
Qian Xinggho believes this type of behaviour can be detrimental to both the photographer and the subject being photographed, as it could lead to criminal charges or serious harm to the individual. She adds that the potential physical, psychological and emotional harm to the subject should always be taken into consideration when someone takes advantage of someone’s vulnerability.
The Legal Implications
The fabrication of a suicide photo, whether intentional or unintentional, could bring legal ramifications. In China, there is a law which criminalizes the fabrication or use of suicide or suicide methods. If a person is found guilty they could face fines or even up to three years in prison. If such a law applies to the photo of the woman at the Wuhan Yangtze River it is currently unknown.
The Chinese police launched an investigation into the matter in March 2020. However, the results of the investigation have not yet been made public. And due to the controversies surrounding the photo and the lack of clear evidence, no one has been charged with any crime.
Ethical and Moral Issue
In the debate over the authenticity of the photo, some experts have also pointed to ethical and moral concerns. A professor of ethics from Tsinghua University, Ma Jing, notes that fabricating a suicide photo is morally wrong, regardless of the photographer’s intentions. Jing believes that fabricating a suicide photo for the sole purpose of going viral is unethical and can have serious implications.
Jing further argues that the fabrication of such a photo is a violation of the subject’s privacy and could lead to a change in public perception towards suicide. He notes that the glamorization of suicide could lead to more suicidal behaviour and make it seem like an acceptable solution to problems.
Public Perception
Apart from the legal, ethical and moral issues, the controversy around this photo has also caused a shift in public perception. The photo has spurred debates about the dangers of social media and the effects of fabricated images or news. It has also served as a reminder of the power of social media and the responsibility that comes with it.
Some experts have also suggested that it is important to remain vigilant when viewing content online, as it is easy to be deceived by false information. The general public is encouraged to take extra precautions while online, and to avoid the spread of false information or images.
The Impact on Mental Health
The conversation around the photo has also raised awareness of the plight of many people who suffer from mental health issues. Mental health advocates believe it is important to generate a supportive environment for those struggling with mental illness. It is also critical to spread awareness about mental health issues and to destigmatize them.
Experts suggest that anyone with mental health concerns should take the time to talk to someone and seek help when needed. They believe it is important to remember that there is always hope, and that talking about mental health issues and seeking help can be invaluable for recovery.
