At a Glance

Why should I run the story?
Consider whether the story needs to be run at all, and how many suicide stories you have run in the last month. A succession of stories can promote a dose response factor and normalise suicidal behavour as an acceptable option.

Language
Use the term 'suicide' sparingly and check the language you use does not glamorise or sensationalise, or present suicide as a solution to problems - eg. consider using 'non-fatal' not 'unsuccessful'; or 'cluster of deaths' rather than 'suicide epidemic'. The term 'committed suicide' is outdated, use 'died by suicide' or 'took his/her own life' instead.

Don't be explicit about method
Most members of the media follow a code - written or unwritten - that the method and location of suicide is not described, displayed or photographed. If it is important to the story, discuss the method and location in general terms only - eg consider using 'cocktail of drugs' rather than a description of the medications taken.  Detailed description can prompt some vulnerable people to copy the act.

Celebrity suicide
Celebrity suicide is often reported where it is considered to be in the public interest. Coverage of celebrity suicide can glamorise or prompt imitation suicide. Avoid descriptions of the method of suicide and seek comment on the wastefulness of the act and provide helplines.

Positioning the story
Some evidence suggests a link between prominent placement of suicide stories and copycat suicide. Position the story on the inside pages of a paper or magazines, or further down in the order of reports in TV and radio news.

Interviewing the bereaved
The bereaved are often at risk of suicide themselves. Follow media codes of practice on privacy, grief and trauma when reporting personal tragedy.

Place the story in context
Many people who die by suicide have a mental disorder, a drug-related illness or other familial or social risk factors. Reporting the underlying causes of suicide can help dispel myths and increase community understanding.

Include helpline contacts
Include phone numbers and contact details for support services. This provides immediate support for those who may have been distressed, or prompted to act, by your story.