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Welcome Media Personnel

“… between 1984 and 1987, journalists in Vienna covered the deaths of individuals who jumped in front of trains in the subway system. The coverage was extensive and dramatic. In 1987, a campaign alerted reporters to the possible negative effects of such reporting, and suggested alternate strategies for coverage. In the first six months after the campaign began subway suicides and non-fatal attempts dropped by more than eighty percent. The total number of suicides in Vienna declined as well.”

-From the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention's recommendations for the media (References 2,3&4)

Introduction

As a member of the media you play a powerful role in bringing information into the public arena. When your work focuses on life and death, protecting one's safety, and/or a family's despair it is all the more critical that the information be reported accurately and appropriately.

The real tragedy is in not giving suicide – its symptoms, causes and aftermath – appropriate coverage in the press. Coverage that is not only accurate and informative but sensitive and non-sensationalized.

A thorny subject

Suicide is the 11th leading cause of death in the United States and the 3rd leading killer of young Americans between the ages of 10 and 24.

The killer is suicide, and given the toll it takes on society, it is certainly worthy of news coverage. Deciding how to approach and report on suicide is a thorny subject for journalists. Editorial policies can vary from one news organization to another. Media personnel have an opportunity to alter the perception of suicide by reporting accurately and with increased awareness.

References for Media personnel Introduction

What to look for as Media personnel

Media personnel have an opportunity to make an impact on global awareness of suicide and suicide's economic and emotional impact on societies. By learning about suicide as well as common misconceptions about suicide and the impact of media on suicidal thoughts and behaviors, media personnel can act responsibly and ethically and help to prevent suicide.

What to do to help as Media personnel

Find out what media personnel can do to increase the accuracy of reporting as well as encourage needed research, prevention efforts, and appropriate treatments. Media personnel have a responsibility and can make a difference.

What education is available for Media personnel

Media personnel can find resources to access more information on suicide including publications, training opportunities, and organizations that may be of interest and helpful to members of the media.

What researchers are doing of interest to Media personnel

Current research projects and findings can help media personnel to accurately report on suicide without using outdated or inaccurate information. Find information like, statistics, research institutions, and organizations working to learn more about suicide and suicide prevention.

What other resources are available for Media personnel

Sometimes there are resources that do not “fit” into any one specific category. Find various resources that offer additional information on suicide and suicide prevention of interest to members of the media.

What to look for

>>Myths

>Professional resources

>>Professional screening tools

>>Suicide risk screening tools

What to do to help