Episode 84: Let's Talk About Last Words: From Suicide Notes to Death Poetry

In this compelling episode of Put Em On The Couch, hosts Jason McCoy and Nelson Beaulieu explore the powerful concept of last words, diving into everything from famous last statements of historical figures to suicide notes and death poetry. What do these final words really say about a life lived, and what can they teach us about human psychology and mortality?

Jason enriches the conversation by weaving in insights from psychological research, including the work of Todd Kashdan (George Mason University), Kurt Gray (University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill), Heather Servaty-Seib, and Kathryn Mannix. They explore the significance of final statements, addressing questions such as, "What would your last words be?" and whether it's truly necessary to think about death or if it only serves as an anxiety-inducing distraction.

Join Jason and Nelson as they reflect on the intersection of death awareness, psychological research, and the fascinating role that last words play in understanding our lives and our legacy.

Key Topics:

• Famous last words of historical figures
• Suicide notes and death poetry
• Psychological research on mortality and death anxiety
• Todd Kashdan’s insights into death and anxiety
• Kurt Gray’s research on human behavior and mortality
• Exploring what last words reveal about a life’s meaning
• The impact of thinking about death on mental health and well-being

Tune in to Put Em On The Couch for a thought-provoking discussion about death, mortality, and the lasting words that define us.