How major news oulets have covered suicide?

 Suicide is a sensitive topic, both in a society as well as in media. The way media covers suicide either raise awareness or cause harm. Media plays an important role in shaping public perception and particularly in the cases of such sensitive topics. The Suicide Contagion, a phenomenon by which an exposure to one’s suicide can trigger suicidal behaviour in others. On the other hand, the Papageno effect prevents suicide by promoting positive examples to ensure the management of the suicide crisis.

This isn't to say that reporting suicide is inherently wrong. In fact, a responsible journalism helps to breakdown the stigma surrounding mental health. However, when news channels sensationalise such stories just for the sake of rating, is harmful. Using suicide to gain TRPs by glamorizing the act shouldn't be normalised. It’s crucial for the media to strike a balance between reporting facts and preserving the dignity and privacy of those involved.

Case Studies: Media Handling of High-Profile Suicides

The Coverage of Robin Williams Death

When actor Robin Williams took his own life in 2014 at the age of 63, major news organizations covered the story in great detail. Many major news outlets reported on Marin County Sherrif’s Lt. Keith Boyd’s press conference, which revealed the graphic details from the reports about the methods Williams used. While there was a great interest on how the actor died but many argued that reporting the matter in too much detail violated the family’s privacy.

His fans posted on Facebook, Twitter and other social networking sites to express their objection on media’s treatment in reporting the suicide, urging the journalists to let the family grieve in peace. Several members of the mental health community also raised their concerns on the issue. Paul Farmer, Chief executive of the mental health charity mind wrote to CNN stating that it looks more like a ‘how to’ guide for suicide. Some journalists also criticised the reports as a clear violation of media ethics. A 2019 study reported an increase of 10% in U.S. suicides in the month following the suicide of Robin Williams. 

Sushant Singh Rajput: The Indian Media’s Sensationalism

In 2020, Bollywood actor Sushant Singh Rajput’s death by suicide was extensively covered by the Indian Media. Instead of focussing on thoughtful discussion mental health, the news channels focused on drama, personal allegations and debates. Channels like Republic Bharat turned his death into a spectacle, offering a little or no dignity into the matter. They forget about the psychological impact such coverage could have on viewers. Whereas, some newspapers like The Hindu published articles in order to raise concerns on mental health. But the electronic media used sensationalism as a way to increase viewership.

A plea for Responsible Journalism

As consumers, it’s important to demand for more responsible coverage. The way stories about suicide is reported can influence the way we think about mental health, how we talk about it and how we support those in crisis.  One particularly damaging effect of sensationalist coverage is that it can create a dangerous comparison. When high-profile celebrities- people who seem to “have it all”-take their own lives, it can cause vulnerable individuals to think, “If someone so successful, rich, and loved can commit suicide, then who am I to keep living?”

Instead of reinforcing despair, the media should focus on stories of recovery, giving people hope in their darkest moments.