Who are the instructions for?
This guide is intended for media professionals who make news of suicide.
What is responsible news coverage?
The way suicide news is handled in the media affects the number of suicide deaths that occur after news coverage.
When reporting on suicides, certain factors should be considered so that reporting does not contribute to increasing suicides.
Take note of this when reporting suicide
- Provide information on where help is available, e.g., contact information for Medical Helpline (tel. 116117) or the national crisis telephone.
- Give information on suicide prevention, but do not spread assumptions.
- Explain how to cope with life situations in general, as well as suicidal thoughts, and how to seek help.
- Be especially careful when reporting suicide deaths of celebrities.
- Be discreet when interviewing the bereaved.
- Remember that even a media professional can be burdened with suicide news coverage.
Avoid these when reporting suicide
- Do not report suicide as a solution to problems in life.
- Do not report details of suicide.
- Do not describe the suicide method in detail.
- Do not describe the details of the scene.
- Do not headline the news inappropriately or sensationally.
- Do not use image, video, or social media links.
