If Josh Duggar Commits Suicide Is It the Fault of the Media?

 As sad as it is, after weeks  of being in the news, Josh Duggar remains in the news because there is  now speculation that he’s depressed and has been isolating and that his family is concerned that he may be suicidal.  You can read those reports here and here.

When I read those reports I have to say that I wasn’t surprised because to be the focus of worldwide intense media speculation has got to be horrible.  No human should ever have to endure the onslaught of public speculation or humiliation like Josh Duggar has.  Now having said that, I covered his story numerous times, and I don’t retract anything I’ve written and I stand by every word.   I’m thankful that this situation has opened up conversation about sexual abuse and crime within the church and I think more needs to be talked about concerning these issues.

However, I have to add that another issue that needs to be discussed is how the media is relentless especially when it comes to covering some people more than others.  The coverage of the Josh Duggar story has been way over the top.  Way over the top.  Let me say it again, WAY OVER THE TOP.   I could easily list others who the media could’ve covered more, but they didn’t.  Since that isn’t the point of this post, let me continue.

I hope that no one in the media hopes Josh Duggar commits suicide.  I don’t want him to kill himself.  Naturally, his family doesn’t want him to end his life.  So what is the solution then? The short and easy solution is this – stop reporting on the Duggar family and  having TLC cancel their show.  Money, fame, a reality television show, none of that is worth losing your life over.   The Christian media can offer prayers of support and those involved in ministry to that family can do all of that without the media being involved.

Also, another lesson this should teach those who want to be famous is that fame comes with a mega huge price.  The world wants you to be perfect and they idolize that image of you the media has photoshopped of you.  There’s nothing cool about that.   Add Christianity that you’re supposed to be representing and it’s honestly a no win situation. The only reason we know the sins of Josh Duggar is because of Christian celebrity.  It would be a shame to see that celebrity die by committing suicide.  I hope his family and friends who still support him, love him enough to get him help and keep him out of the public eye. (Photo credit: Twitter)