Vice Essentials Season 1 Episode 1 Suicide Forests

The show Vice Essentials is a documentary series that delves into a range of fascinating and often under-reported topics that are essential to understanding our world today. The first episode of season one is called "Suicide Forests", and it takes an in-depth look at Aokigahara, a dense and foreboding forest at the base of Mount Fuji in Japan.

Aokigahara is known as the "suicide forest" because it has become a popular destination for people to take their own lives. Despite being a place of natural beauty, the forest has a dark history and a reputation that goes beyond its stunning landscapes. Each year, a significant number of people venture deep into the forest with the intention of ending their lives, and the episode aims to explore the reasons why this happens.

The episode begins by examining the cultural and historical significance of Aokigahara. We see footage of the forest and learn about its centuries-old history and the beliefs surrounding it. Aokigahara has long been associated with death and the supernatural, and we hear from locals who share stories of their encounters with ghosts and spirits in the forest.

The episode then turns its attention to the increasing numbers of people who visit the forest with suicidal intentions. We hear from individuals who have lost loved ones to suicide in Aokigahara, and they describe their pain and the lingering questions that follow their loss. Suicide is a complex issue that is often the result of a combination of factors, and the episode does a good job of exploring some of the many issues that can lead someone to take their own life.

One of the most striking aspects of the episode is the way it challenges some of the myths and stereotypes surrounding suicide in Japan. Suicide rates in Japan are among the highest in the world, and the episode shows how complex and multifaceted the issue is. We learn about the pressures that are faced by young people in Japan - including expectations around education, career and family - and how these pressures can be overwhelming. We also see how the issue of suicide is framed in the media and the role that this plays in perpetuating myths and stereotypes.

Throughout the episode, there is a sense of sadness and grief that hangs over everything. It's clear that the issue of suicide in Aokigahara is one that deeply affects many people. However, there are also moments of hope and resilience, and the episode does a good job of highlighting some of the positive steps being taken to address the issue.

Overall, "Suicide Forests" is a powerful and thought-provoking episode that shines a light on a rarely discussed issue. It's a testament to the importance of journalism that explores these complex and often painful topics, and it's clear that the team behind Vice Essentials have done their research and put together a well-crafted piece. The episode is an excellent start to the series, and it leaves the viewer eager to see what other essential stories are still waiting to be told.