Journalists will eventually have to cover difficult stories within their beats. Stories do not get much tougher and more challenging than reporting on suicide.
The choice of words and selection of pictures can make all the difference for the families involved and vulnerable readers. Writing for IJNet, journalist Cristiana Bedei provides a list of timeless guidelines for reporting on suicide to take into your next relevant story.
Speaking to writer and founder of the Mental Health Media Charter, Natasha Devon, she says there are some terms and phrases you should avoid altogether, including "commit suicide" or "successful suicide".
"Evidence shows that if people believe there will be legal ramifications, it might stop them seeking help for suicidal thoughts. It’s important to avoid perpetuating this myth," it reads.
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