In the light of current media coverage of suicide which is linked to mental illness, and in anticipation of the resulting future media coverage, Headline would like to re-emphasise the role that the media plays in reporting on this serious issue in a positive and responsible way.
Headline appreciates that these topics are newsworthy. However it is important to consider the impact of media coverage when linked to suicide and/or mental illness. Research shows that copycat behaviour in vulnerable people can follow certain types of media portrayals. To avoid imitation we suggest the following
Contact details for sources of help and support should be included in news articles related to suicide. A good example would be the Samaritans Helpline at 1850 609.
Providing explicit details of the method of suicide should be avoided, as it may give vulnerable people the knowledge they need to imitate the behaviour.
Dramatic photographs or images should not be used, as these have a negative impact on those in distress.
For further advice on the reporting of suicide or mental illness, please check out the media information section our website at www.headline.ie.
Jane Arigho
Headline
36 Blessington Street, Dublin 7
