At its core, TikTok is supposed to be a silly, fun app with lip syncs, challenges, dances, and fun videos. But, as with most social media, there is an underlying dark side to the platform that parents and fans of the app should be aware of.
The phrase “I ate pasta tonight” is not a new viral fad, but rather a call for help.
What the statement often means is that the person in the video feels depressed, anxious, or experiencing suicidal thoughts.
According to CDC data, Generation Z is the generation at highest risk for mental illness. Business Insider reports that the suicide rate among people ages 10-24 increased by 56 percent between 2007 and 2017.
Social media can also contribute to depression. Statistically, Generation Z is more likely to be on social media than not, and a study by the Guildford Press concluded that there is a link between social media and poor mental and emotional health.
I saw a tiktok about a girl saying her mother had just made her favorite pasta … not knowing what it was about, I went to the comment section and everyone gave her reasons to stay. a comment said “have you heard your son’s laugh yet?” …
– Amber (@x_amberlynne) June 25, 2020
Other captions like “I finished my shampoo and conditioner at the same time” serve as help codes. Mental health remains a stigmatized issue that many find it very difficult to openly admit or speak about, so these phrases act as a way to raise a red flag without feeling too vulnerable online.
A Reddit user believes the phrases come from a Wattpad post titled “Don’t kill yourself today.” One point says “finish your shampoo and conditioner at the same time” and another says “tell someone your best pasta recipe.”
The powerful thing about “I ate pasta tonight” are the comments. Those who are aware of the meaning behind the phrase know how to approach the person or respond with kind words.
A TikTok titled “I told my mom about my favorite pasta recipe and she made it for dinner tonight” received over 3 million views and 60,000 comments, all of which can be summed up in one user’s comment: “This comments section is my new therapy. Thanks. “
“You are so loved,” replied one person.
“You haven’t gotten that far to get that far,” posted another.
“I love you all so much that it’s beyond words,” the poster commented. “Thank you very much.”
If you or someone you know is contemplating suicide, call National Lifeline for Suicide Prevention at 1-800-273-8255. Click here to learn about the warning signs of suicide.
To read more about mental health, read this profile at Dimple Patel, who is on a mission to raise awareness within the South Asian community.
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The deepest meaning behind the TikTok caption “I Had Pasta Tonight” first appeared on In The Know.
