A popular social media trend appears inspired by mythical creatures — but mental health professionals are concerned it might result in a harsh reality for young people.
Searching for #fairyflying on TikTok leads to videos featuring disturbing imagery many compare to fake “suicide-by-hanging” videos that seemingly show lifeless, headless bodies swaying in the air.
TikTokers join the challenge — at 66 million views as of Wednesday — by posting similar videos featuring the unsettling imagery.
In one 11-second clip posted July 24, content creator @emmytherattypatty is seen hanging in front of a dresser with her head obscured.
At a glance, it appears as if the TikToker is hanging herself, but she is actually standing on the dresser with Crocs dangling on her heels while she flails her arms.
“I was terrified for my life before I noticed what was happening,” one concerned commenter posted underneath the viral video with 3 million views.
[Disclaimer: The content below could be triggering to some.]
‘The videos are disturbing because what you see are feet dangling, which mimics a suicide by hanging. A person who’s experiencing mental health problems may not think logically, especially a child.’
Alicia D. Akins, Ph.D, a mental health counselor who specializes in treating teens, told The Post.
The Post reached out to TikTok for comment on how the platform might combat this new viral trend — as it struggles to deal with potentially dangerous content.
The app has previously shot down accusations that it provides a showcase for hazardous challenges. Among the most recent were the “Benadryl,” “boat-jumping” and “scarf game” challenges.
“At TikTok, we strictly prohibit and remove content that promotes dangerous behavior with the safety of our community as a priority,” reps for the China-based social media company told The Post after a 13-year-old boy died taking part in the Benadryl challenge in April.
However, the new challenge involves an added layer of complexity, as the videos are often presented in a “cute,” not obviously negative manner.
“The #fairflying trend could be triggering or bring about negative emotions for people who have experienced suicidal ideation or have loved ones who’ve attempted or committed suicide,” Dr. Josh Stein, a child and adolescent psychiatrist for Newport Healthcare’s PrairieCare program, told the Post.
“Even in its most innocent form, videos that depict people hanging could be disturbing to some,” Dr. Stein added. “This speaks to one of the major challenges of TikTok and social media — things go live and without awareness of potential consequences or warnings.”
Meanwhile, another anonymous TikTok account listed as @fairypowers123456 features a barrage of fairy-flying videos presented as “cute” and “preppy” content.
Although the video captions clearly reference #fairyflying, some viewers were confused about what they were seeing.
“I can’t be the only one who first thought it was another thing,” admitted one watcher. “WTF.”
“Help, I’m so confused,” pleaded another. “THIS IS GETTING TOO REALLL.”
As the viral clips continue to circulate, concerns have grown in the medical community.
“The videos are disturbing because what you see are feet dangling, which mimics a suicide by hanging,” Alicia D. Akins, Ph.D., a mental health counselor who specializes in treating teens, told The Post.
“A person who’s experiencing mental health problems may not think logically, especially a child,” Atlanta-based Akins added. “[They] may get an idea that they’ve never thought of by watching these videos. Which is proven by Bandura’s Social Learning theory, which posits that observation and modeling play a primary role in how and why people learn. We mimic what we see, watch and are shown.”
Reps for TikTok have previously removed content and phrases from the platform after deeming them dangerous to viewers, including the “blackout challenge,” which was linked to the deaths of 20 children in 2022, according to Bloomberg.
A TikTok search for prohibited terms often results in a “Your safety matters” message, along with an explanation declaring, “Some online challenges can be dangerous, disturbing, or even fabricated. Learn how to recognize harmful challenges so you can protect your health and well-being.”
Although some viral video viewers have pointed out these new clips seem eerily similar to death imagery, the platform has a clearly stated policy regarding suicide and self-harm.
“TikTok is a positive and supportive community. We hope that the dances, songs, cute animals, scenery, and comedy can bring happiness to people on our platform,” reads a statement on the site. “But sometimes, loneliness and stress are hard to avoid. If you or someone you may know are having a tough time or contemplating self-harm, we want you to know that we are here to help.”
Meanwhile, mental health experts encourage parents to be diligent about monitoring their kids’ screen time.
“We also have to ask ourselves, what is the appeal here and why does this resonate with people?” Dr. Danielle Roeske, vice president of residential services for Connecticut’s Newport Healthcare, told the Post. “What does this type of content say about our society and how we’re trying to connect? Must we shock to connect with one another?”
If you are struggling with suicidal thoughts or are experiencing a mental health crisis and live in New York City, you can call 1-888-NYC-WELL for free and confidential crisis counseling. If you live outside the five boroughs, you can dial the 24/7 National Suicide Prevention hotline at 1-800-273-8255 or go to SuicidePreventionLifeline.org.
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