Recommendations for Reporting on Suicide
The media plays a powerful role in educating the public about suicide prevention. Stories about suicide can inform and empower, but they also have the potential to do harm. Implementation of recommendations for reporting on suicide has been shown to decrease suicide rates.
For example, informing readers about suicide warning signs or recent treatment advances for mental illness or highlighting resources for support and crisis services is valuable to vulnerable people and those who care for them. (American Association of Suicidology)
A representative from the NMSPC would be happy to answer any media questions related to suicide or suicide prevention. Please contact us at (505) 401-9382.
If you would like to learn more about the important role that the media can play in preventing suicide you may find these documents helpful:
Media Guideliness for Covering Suicide: Contagion Is Real:
Reporting On Suicide: Recommendations for the Media
