"The Office" Episode Offends Suicide Prevention Groups

November 6, 2009 10:48 a.m. EST

Los Angeles, CA (CNS) - Steve Carrell's latest comedy act has failed to elicit a laugh from suicide prevention groups. An episode of "The Office" has drawn criticism for its insensitivity to the issue.

The episode in question, aired October 29, saw Carrell's character, Michael Scott, slipping a noose around his neck and faking a hanging to scare a group of kids.

Michael told the young visitors afterwards, "Kids, just remember, suicide is not the answer. It is the easy way out."

Several suicide prevention groups found the act insensitive and offensive.

The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention executive director Robert Gebbia told TVGuide.com that portrayals of suicide can be offensive to people who have lost someone. The depiction of suicides or methods of suicides can actually be dangerous to people who are vulnerable.

Mental Health America, the National Alliance on Mental Illness, and Suicide Awareness Voices in Education have echoed AFSP's sentiments.