alt Hacker NewsTorment run would be becoming a masochist to cope. The comment likely refers to the ability in being able to identify the alternatives, and being flexible.
Torment run would be slogging under the student's adviser, the other option being reporting him, or switching advisers, or any other option life presents.
Yes, you are right. If someone reaches a point where they feel that their situation is so bad that they have to die because of it, then reporting the adviser, switching advisers, escaping to another place, completely starting a new life, or whatever other option life presents could potentially make their life much better, and in some cases even be life-changing. I mean, what worse could happen by trying these options than ending your life? If someone has the courage to make such a drastic decision as ending their life, you could also help them muster the courage to completely restart their life instead.