Changing the narrative on suicide: an engagement with the media

During an engagement with media houses on responsible reporting of suicide and suicide attempts, the Ministry of Health and Social Services reported that 1474 Namibians had lost their lives by suicide over the past three years.

The media dialogue was a response to what appeared to be a suicide contagion following media reports of suicide by influential figures. Exposure to suicide or suicidal behaviour within one's family, one's peer group, or through media reports of suicide can increase suicide and suicidal behaviour.

Mrs Helen Mouton, the acting Director for Social Welfare Services in the Ministry of Health and Social Services, says that 'the factors that contribute to suicide and its prevention are complex and not fully understood. However, there is overwhelming and ever-increasing evidence that the media can play a significant role in either enhancing suicide prevention efforts or weakening them. The media may provide useful educational information about suicide or may spread misinformation, perpetuate myths about it, or unintentionally stimulate thoughts and ideas. Sometimes our intentions may be pure and good, but the effects of them may be dire.'

She further noted that those with a history of suicide attempts or suicidal ideation, or those exposed to suicide, are at increased risk of engaging in imitative behaviour following media reports of suicide - particularly if the coverage is extensive, prominent, sensational, explicitly describes the method of suicide, makes suicide appear normal, or perpetuates widely held myths about suicide.

Dr Sadrag Shihomeka, Media Ombudsman, praised the media for sharing news but highlighted some poor editorial practices that may place the media industry in disrepute. He noted a few cases of biased reporting, inaccuracy, invasion of privacy and sensationalism. He emphasised that journalists have a moral duty to report ethically, inform honestly and account for their actions. He further called for ethical and responsible journalism in reporting suicide cases and suggested that media houses adopt a self-regulation mechanism.

Also speaking at the same occasion was Dr Chido Rwafa, WHO Regional Advisor on Mental Health in the Regional Office for Africa. She shared 'Do's and Don'ts' for media reporting on suicide. Dr Rwafa stated that the media should provide accurate information about where and how to seek help for suicidal thoughts and suicidal crises, exercise particular caution when reporting on celebrity suicide, inform the public with facts about suicides and suicide prevention, tell stories of triumph and how to cope with life challenges, and be sensitive when interviewing bereaved family members or persons with lived experience of suicide. She further noted that there is a need to recognise that journalists may themselves be affected when covering stories about suicide and may need care and support.

She cautioned against the use of sensational language, providing details on methods used, the location and names of affected individuals, suicide notes, and against oversimplifying the reasons for a suicide or reducing it to a single factor. She further cautioned against the use of photographs and audiovisuals and against positioning suicide-related content as a top story or repeating such stories unduly.

The journalists in attendance expressed appreciation for the engagement. They requested more engagement with the media on issues of mental health and suicide prevention, not only as media professionals but also as platforms for debriefing and support.