How We Talk About Suicide Matters

Safe Reporting and Storytelling

Suicide is tragic, it is complex, and it is heartbreaking for those left behind. It is a public health issue, and at the same time, very personal to those who experience suicidal ideation, are worried about someone who does, or have lost someone they care about to suicide. That's why talking about suicide safely - by journalists, on our social media platforms, and in our day-to-day conversations - is so important.

Part of SpeakUp ReachOut's mission is to raise awareness about suicide. Talking about suicide helps reduce stigma and sharing resources can be very useful. However, when a suicide death occurs it is incredibly important that we share this information in a safe and respectful manner. Sharing that suicide is the manner of death is reasonable. Sharing the graphic details, means by which the suicide occurred or specific details of the location of a death is not safe messaging and can put people at further risk. We also need to be respectful of the family who may wish to grieve privately.

According to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention use of safe reporting practices can protect those who are most vulnerable, respect surviving families and save lives. For more information on the importance of safe reporting and steps you can take in your own life when talking about suicide, please visit www.afsp.org/safereporting. 

If you or someone you know needs support please call Your Hope Center in Eagle County at 970-306-4673 or call 988.

Vail Daily Editorial: Let’s talk about suicide responsibly: The Vail Daily Staff Editorial

How to Ask About Suicide: A video with SpeakUp ReachOut, Your Hope Center and Vail Health Behavioral Health on how to talk with someone about suicide.

National Action Alliance Frame Work for Successful Messaging: a research-based resource that outlines four key factors to consider when developing public messages about suicide.