Unfriendly environments are created by just a few words

“Commit. That’s so gay. You’re SPED. Go kill yourself.” These are common slang terms echoing in the hallways of SHS, jests that have made their way into the daily vernacular of students. Yet, for those who struggle with disability or identity, these seemingly lighthearted insults can be extremely offensive and cruel.

The actual definitions of these words have been twisted to include derogatory implications. Using these words as slang terms oversimplifies the personal problems and disabilities many people face. Struggling with sexual or gender identity, as well as dealing with depression and other mental illnesses, is a constant battle endured by many students.

People suffering from mental illnesses such as depression and anxiety are sometimes stigmatized and isolated due to lack of empathy, and the perpetuation of such insensitive terms only exacerbates their situation. According to the National Network of Depression Centers, about 11 in 100,000 people die by suicide every year in the U.S., and mental illnesses are the No. 1 predictive factor. One in five Americans experience firsthand bipolar disorder, depression or another mood disorder.

Using phrases such as “commit” or “go kill yourself” makes light of suicide and creates an uncomfortable atmosphere for individuals struggling with suicidal thoughts. Dealing with a mental illness is taxing work; trying to heal is even harder. Creating a callous environment that shames people for these illnesses is a step back for these students.

Speak Up for Change week, from Jan. 19 to Jan. 22, was instituted by the school to spread awareness and encourage students to be supportive and empathetic. The goal was to create a more accepting environment, with an educated and aware student body.

Knowing that students still use these slang terms, even around their classmates who have courageously come forward to share their stories of personal hardships, is deeply troubling. Perpetuating this insensitivity may prevent students from speaking out about their issues. More than 90 percent of suicides are due to undiagnosed, undertreated or untreated mental disorders, according to a University of Washington fact sheet.

The abuse of words also makes students uncomfortable with sharing their sexual preferences or gender orientation. Throwing around phrases like “that’s so gay” is hardly a way to encourage self-exploration among adolescents.

Another notable absence among the student population is respect for students receiving special education. Special education students are often not present in classes with other students because they require different methods of learning. This has set them apart from their peers, and they have become targets of callous jokes.

Adopting the derogatory term of “sped,” students promote the misled idea that anyone who is stupid or unworthy should be considered special ed. There seems to be a lack of understanding that everyone deserves respect, regardless of capability, success or talent. In addition to that, many students in this program may have surface disabilities but are incredibly astute and perceptive; just one example of someone who would be in special education if he were a teenager today is the founder of his brokerage and banking company Charles Schwab, the billionaire who is severely dyslexic.
Is following the trend of slang terms appropriate? Even if it is just for a laugh, ridiculing students with disrespectful words will nurture a toxic school culture. We should strive for an environment that is not stifling and crude, but rather celebrates all individuals.