Reporting on Suicide

Suicide can be one of the most difficult things to report on. Coverage decisions can affect both the people involved and the journalists assigned the story, as well as impact public health in the broader community.

Suicide coverage requires journalists to balance two of our main ethical principles: “truth and accuracy” and “accountability for consequences.” Some studies suggest a consequence of irresponsible suicide coverage can be more suicides (contagion), while there is also research that suggests thoughtful coverage can promote better community mental health outcomes.

While many news organizations don’t report on individual suicides of people who are not well known, it's not as simple as “less coverage means less chance of contributing to additional harm.” A lack of awareness can also make it harder for communities to recognize areas of concern and marshal resources for solutions.

This guidance reflects best practices from suicide prevention experts, public health authorities, and news standards leaders. Our goal is to inform without sensationalizing, minimize further harm to vulnerable individuals and communities and uphold both professional standards and public trust.

The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention encourages journalists to avoid using language that refers to suicide as “successful,” “unsuccessful,” or “failed attempt.” Additionally, avoid specifics about manner of death. Instead, use the language such as “attempted suicide,” “made an attempt,” “died by suicide,” or “took his/her life.” 

It is imperative news reports do not sensationalize the suicide. This may mean avoiding graphic details of the situation, posting or providing specifics about a suicide note or providing detailed location of the death or attempted suicide. In the same scope, avoid providing theories or information that depict a cause or reason for the suicide.   

Always provide helpline information. The Crisis Lifeline can be reached by dialing 988, and there also is a Crisis text line - by texting TALK  to 741741. Consider adding a content warning at the beginning of your report as well.

Additional guidance can be found here.

Revised and approved November 24, 2025.