Tuesday, September 24, 2019

Tell Us. Don't Encourage. Don't Traumatize. - DAY 24


Responsible reporting when it comes to suicide, is so important. Suicide is a public health issue. It is not sensationalistic. It should not be treated any differently. Irresponsible reporting can lead to a spike in suicides following high profile losses, or in communities after a community member dies by suicide.

Responsible reporting about suicide is not just a journalistic standard. Potentially, it saves lives.
If you are writing about suicide or sharing your experiences publicly, in large audiences, or in the media (including social media) these are the guidelines that are important to follow. Please keep them in mind. I do, whenever I write.

Rather than re-invent the wheel, I will share the sources I always refer to when I need reminders. I hope this information will be helpful to you too.

From the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention:




And a quick primer from Samaritans Media Guidelines: