Reporting responsibly on suicide

Suicide is a complex public health issue, and research shows that the way suicide is reported can influence both community understanding and help-seeking behavior. Responsible reporting practices can help reduce the risk of suicide contagion while encouraging people to access support and resources. 

PreventSuicideRI.org's Responsible Reporting Page is a resource developed and maintained by the Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) and the Rhode Island Department of Behavioral Healthcare, Developmental Disabilities & Hospitals (BHDDH) to support journalists, editors, publishers, and media professionals in reporting on suicide and mental health-related issues.

The Responsible Reporting page brings together trusted, evidence-based guidance and tools, including: 

• Best practices for safe and accurate reporting  

• Language guidance that reduces stigma and promotes respectful coverage  

• National recommendations from Reporting on Suicide, American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), and other leading organizations  

• Resources that emphasize help-seeking, hope, and recovery  

Here are some recommendations from the RIDOH and BHDDH:

• Avoid sensational, dramatic, oversimplifying, romanticizing or repetitive coverage.

• Do not describe suicide methods or locations in detail.

• Use accurate, non-stigmatizing language (e.g., “died by suicide” rather than “committed

suicide”). Include crisis resources and messages that recovery and support are possible.

• Respect privacy and avoid graphic images, notes, or intrusive reporting.

• Provide context from mental health experts and frame suicide as a public health issue.

• Moderate social media engagement and comments to reduce harmful amplification.

• Follow established suicide-reporting guidelines and train staff regularly.

"As trusted voices in communities across the state, members of the Rhode Island Press Association play an essential role in shaping public understanding and awareness," say the agencies. "By incorporating responsible reporting practices, local media can continue informing the public while also supporting suicide prevention efforts throughout Rhode Island."