So, let’s break this down. The tragic death of Utah beauty queen Brynn Carnesecca, which is now being labeled a suicide, is making headlines—but are we really getting the truth? Major networks like CNN and NBC will push their narrative of “shock” and “seemingly doing well in therapy,” yet it’s vital to question how these outlets sensationalize mental health crises while glossing over deeper societal issues. “She was doing well,” they say. Really? How can we trust a slew of unnamed sources and vague “friends” without context actionably critiqued?

What Brynn’s story tells us is that mental health isn’t black and white. It’s complex and messy. Yet, CNN’s treatment of this tragedy belies their own discomfort with discussing uncomfortable truths surrounding mental health treatment’s limitations. Meanwhile, Fox News might jump on the airwaves to exploit her story as a cautionary tale against pageantry, characterizing beauty contests as breeding grounds for despair, all while ignoring the systemic societal pressures on young women.

We need to hold these networks accountable for their shallow narratives and their failure to bring light to underlying societal problems, like the digital age’s impact on mental health and the often unrealistic standards we impose on ourselves and each other. Rather than overly simplifying Brynn’s life into headlines, let’s expand the conversation to encompass the real issues at play.