Suicide and the Role of Media

Media plays a significant role in today’s society by providing a very wide range of information in a variety of ways. Various media strongly influence community attitudes, beliefs and behaviour. The factors contributing to suicide and its prevention are complex and not fully understood, but there is evidence that the media plays a significant role. On the one hand, vulnerable individuals may be influenced to engage in imitative behaviours by reports of suicide, particularly if the coverage is extensive, prominent, sensationalist. On the other hand, responsible reporting may serve to educate the public about suicide, and may encourage those at risk of suicide to seek help. Restriction of access to means of suicide and “influencing” media reporting of suicide in the positive direction are two most accepted methods of suicide prevention.