News stories, etc., on suicide-related deaths can be helpful in promoting service areas where at-risk people can find help. They can also be harmful in that they may stimulate some people to attempt suicide. There is confusion about how the subject of suicide should be treated to minimize this danger.
To discourage imitative or copycat suicides, it is important to avoid or minimize:
Specific details of the method
Descriptions of a suicide as unexplainable (e.g., “He had everything going for him.”)
Romanticized versions of the reasons for the suicide (e.g., “We want to be together for all eternity.”)
Simplistic reasons for the suicide (e.g., “Boy takes his own life because he has to wear braces.”)
In addition, the print media can reduce the imitative effect by:
Printing the story on an inside page
If the story must appear on the first page, print it below the fold
Avoid the word “suicide” in the headline
Avoid printing a photo of the person who completed the suicide"
It is important to report a suicide in a straightforward manner so that the suicide does not appear "exciting". Reports should not make the suicidal person appear admirable, nor should they seem to approve of the suicide.
To encourage prevention of suicide, it is helpful to:
Present alternatives to suicide (calling a suicide prevention centre, getting counselling, etc.)
Whenever possible, present examples of positive outcomes of people in suicidal crises
Provide information on community resources for those who may be suicidal or who know people who are
Include a list of clues to suicidal behaviour, such as the warning signs of suicide, and what to do
What to Do
Discuss it openly and frankly
Show interest and support
Get professional help
Call Distress Centres at 416-408-HELP (4357)
Warning Signs of Suicide
Suicide threats
Statements revealing a desire to die
Previous suicide attempts
Sudden changes in behaviour (withdrawal, apathy, moodiness)
Depression (e.g., crying, sleeplessness, loss of appetite, hopelessness)
Final arrangements, such as giving away personal possessions
For all media queries
Please contact Talia by filling out the media inquiry form below.
