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Editors and reporters should in particular be aware of the impact that stories about suicides might have on the vulnerable.
Details of the method or the location a suicide victim uses may lead to copycat suicides. A reporter should not risk providing another person considering suicide with the details of how it can be achieved.
It's vital to use statistics and mental health information very carefully.
Journalists should avoid a detailed description of the suicide method. The media should avoid giving a false impression that suicide is a way to become famous.
Suicide coverage is an opportunity to provide the public with information and resources that could save lives. People who commit suicide do not do so suddenly, even if it might appear so at first glance. There are warning signs, and any coverage of suicide should incorporate them.
The media should respect the privacy of family members and avoid imposing on the grief of those affected.
It's important to avoid romanticizing suicide or suggesting it's been used to "solve" a problem.
Recommendations on Portrayal: Use appropriate languageuse phrases like: a suicide, die by suicide, a suicide attempt, a completed suicide, person at risk of suicide, and help prevent suicide. Encourage public understanding of the complexity of suicide. Seek expert advice. Debunk the common myths about suicide. Encourage explanation of the risk factors of suicide. Consider the timing. Coincidental deaths by suicide of two or more people may make the events more topical and newsworthy, but additional care is required. Include details of further sources of information and advice. Remember the effect on survivors of suicidethe bereaved and those who have attempted suicide in the past.
Since there are many complicated reasons for suicides, journalists should avoid simplicity and blaming any party for a particular case.
When reporting individual cases, newspapers should consider publishing information about organizations and counseling services, which may prevent suicides.