It seems that Walmart has crossed a troubling line this Halloween season. The retail giant has made headlines for offering a latex prosthetic labeled “Razor Blade Suicide Scar Wound Latex Costume Makeup” (sold by Totally Costumes). The product imagery is shocking, depicting deep cuts with a hand holding a razor blade, which is not included. It’s marketed for “Party” occasions, suggesting that such a serious issue is merely a theme for a costume.
One reviewer, who expressed outrage before their comment was removed, summed it up perfectly: “I am disgusted that you would think to make this a costume. Suicide is not a joke.” And they’re right. Walmart should be aware of the gravity of this matter. Suicide is currently the second leading cause of death among individuals aged 10 to 34, and the fourth for those aged 35 to 54. In 2014 alone, over 42,000 lives were lost to suicide in the U.S., according to the CDC. For every suicide, there are an estimated 25 attempts. While wrist-cutting may not be the most common method, a significant number of those who engage in self-harm do so through cutting. The American Society for Suicide Prevention estimates that approximately one million Americans attempt suicide annually—an alarming statistic that translates to roughly 1 in 33 individuals.
Every day, around 117 people take their own lives in America. Each of these tragedies leaves behind families shattered by grief, asking themselves what they could have done to prevent such loss. The reality is that suicide often affects older generations, leaving behind grieving adult children and grandchildren, some even still in their early years.
Suicide is far from a joke. It is a harrowing reality for many, and it’s certainly not something to be trivialized or mocked. While it’s fine to joke about fictional monsters or gore, making light of suicide and self-harm is deeply offensive and harmful. It trivializes the pain experienced by those grappling with mental health issues. Importantly, mental illness itself is no laughing matter. According to the Kim Foundation, around 26.2% of adults—nearly 1 in 4—experience a diagnosable mental disorder each year, and over 90% of those who die by suicide have a mental illness.
As someone who has faced the struggles of mental health, including suicidal thoughts, I find this costume appalling. It belittles the severity of the illness and the potential fatal consequences. The thought that people would consider it an acceptable Halloween costume makes me feel both sick and angry. Where has the creativity gone? Why not opt for classic costumes like vampires instead?
Moreover, no one who has survived a suicide attempt would showcase their scars in such a way; they would likely conceal them. This costume is not only crude and offensive, but it also lacks authenticity.
For $3.99, plus shipping, this item could be yours. Alternatively, you could purchase it from another vendor for a slightly higher price. It’s unsettling to think about how many of these items were initially available and how many have already sold. What does it say about society that some would choose to make light of such a serious issue?
As a family-friendly establishment, Walmart should uphold values that respect those affected by mental health struggles and suicide. If the company wishes to maintain its reputation, it must remove this product and issue a public apology.
Since the publication of this article, Walmart’s media relations team provided an update stating that they found the costume unacceptable and have since removed it from their marketplace. Such items clearly violate their policy on prohibited items.
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In summary, Walmart’s choice to sell a costume that trivializes suicide is profoundly insensitive. It highlights the need for greater awareness and compassion regarding mental health issues. As a society, we must prioritize understanding and support for those in need, rather than exploiting their struggles for entertainment.
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