Precautions to Take When Reporting Suicide Incidents
Image source, Getty Images
Nearly half a dozen suicide incidents have been reported in Nepal within the past month.
As the initial case in the capital was widely discussed, subsequent similar incidents have prompted experts to call for heightened caution when reporting or sharing such topics on social media.
Experts note that inappropriate coverage of suicide cases can encourage similar behavior in others, as evidenced by global examples.
The ‘Copycat’ Effect of Incidents
Statistics confirm that Nepal has a high suicide rate.
According to recent data from Nepal Police, up to Jestha month of 2082/83 (Nepali calendar), 6,282 suicide cases have been registered.
Last year’s ‘Police Mirror’ report shows suicide ranked third among crimes registered in 2081/82.
Most complaints involved banking fraud with over 13,000 cases, followed by public crimes with more than 8,000 cases. Suicide cases, totaling 6,852, ranked third.
On average, about 19 suicide incidents occur daily, surpassing the number of drug-related or theft cases.
The recent half-dozen incidents reported in the capital have raised concerns about a growing tendency to imitate such events.
Psychologists say that details of such incidents may encourage people suffering from mental health struggles.
“Individuals who attempt suicide are often driven by despair. Reporting such cases sensitively is crucial to avoid harm to others,” says Dr. Saroj Ojha, senior psychiatrist at Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital.
Dr. Ishwari Khanal, senior psychiatrist at Lagankhel Mental Hospital, adds that such news influences the general public.
“People with similar mindsets, who may be grappling with family or financial issues, can be immediately impacted by reports of suicide,” Dr. Khanal explains.
“Even if such individuals had previously resisted taking such steps, sensational news can prompt an immediate decision.”
There are many global examples where suicides of prominent individuals or widely publicized cases have inspired imitation. He notes, “Recently, Nepal has also seen a rise in self-immolation incidents.”
What to Do and What to Avoid
Psychiatrists recommend avoiding sensational coverage, broadcasting, and posting about suicide news on social media.
“Both the World Health Organization and Nepal’s Ministry of Health advise against reporting suicide incidents where possible. If reporting is necessary, many precautions must be taken,” Dr. Khanal said.
“Sensational reporting without sensitivity can have a negative effect. Showing visual content is also dangerous.”
Dr. Saroj Ojha advises media outlets not to feature suicide incidents on their front pages. “This impacts others and spreads fear. Reports should focus on prevention measures,” he said.
Due to the rise in similar incidents, an online news platform has announced it will refrain from reporting on suicide cases except in exceptional circumstances, in line with its editorial policy.
“We have developed this policy mindful of public responsibility and media ethics when covering serial incidents,” they stated.
Representatives of prestigious global media also exercise caution when reporting suicide news.
“Such guidelines appear necessary now for Nepal’s media as well,” said Umesh Shrestha, chairman of the Press Council.
“Procedures have been established for reporting on children and persons with disabilities. We are now working on guidelines in collaboration with media for suicide-related matters,” Shrestha added.
The Press Council holds a vital role in monitoring and evaluating media to ensure responsible and ethical standards.
Image source, Getty Creative Stock
The World Health Organization has issued guidelines for careful reporting and broadcasting of suicide incidents. Key recommendations include:
Actions to Avoid –
- Avoid sensational headlines,
- Do not disclose methods of suicide,
- Do not provide details about the location,
- Do not share information about ‘suicide notes’,
- Avoid attributing the cause to a single or simplistic reason,
- Do not use pictures, videos, audio, or social media links related to the incident,
- Do not unduly highlight or repeatedly cover suicide news.
Recommended Actions –
- Provide information on prevention and avoidance of suicide,
- Exercise extra sensitivity when reporting on suicide of famous individuals,
- Raise public awareness about suicide prevention,
- Offer materials on coping with life stress,
- Engage empathetically with affected families,
- Remain aware that journalists can also be emotionally affected by such news.
Psychiatrists emphasize that the same rules apply to mainstream media and social networks.
“Images of suicide scenes or liking, sharing, and commenting on related posts should be avoided. Some may engage in such acts knowingly or unknowingly. We should consider the impact of our actions and behave responsibly. Combatting suicide requires everyone’s cooperation,” Dr. Khanal urged.
“News should not be frequently posted merely for increasing views.”
The Rastriya Swatantra Party on Wednesday requested its members to refrain from sharing news or information related to suicide and self-immolation incidents.
Support is Available
Free helpline services for suicide prevention and counseling are currently operational in Nepal.
Those in need can call 1166 to access suicide prevention hotline services and receive psychological counseling.
“Anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts must immediately see a psychiatrist. If that’s not possible, help can be sought via the helpline,” Dr. Khanal said.
The helpline operates 24 hours a day, he added.