Resources for Media and Influencers

Media professionals and social media influencers have powerful platforms—and with that comes a responsibility to talk about suicide in a way that is safe, accurate, and compassionate.

How suicide is portrayed can deeply influence public perception, shape conversations, and impact vulnerable individuals. Sensationalized or graphic content can increase risk, while thoughtful, respectful storytelling can promote understanding, reduce stigma, and encourage help-seeking.

By following evidence-based guidelines and centering lived experience with care, those in the media can play a critical role in suicide prevention and in fostering a culture where it’s okay to ask for help.

Resources

Best Practices for reporting on suicide: Recommendations for reporters and content producers established using SAVE. The process was led by SAVE and included leading national and international suicide prevention, public health and communication’s experts, news organizations, reporters, journalism
schools and internet safety experts.

Preventing suicide: a resource for media professionals: A comprehensive resource from the World Health Organization for professionals working directly in the media, such as journalists, news directors, editors, copy editors, photographers and videographers, as well as journalism schools.

How to Talk About Suicide on Social Media: A guide for social media influencers and members of the public.

How to Help if Someone on Social Media: A practical guidance on responding to suicidal thoughts expressed via social media.