How we report personal subjects has a lasting impact on our readers. Journoresources spoke to three experienced journalists for their best advice on covering mental health
It is important to remember that as journalists, our writing can have a big impact on our audiences, especially on personal and emotional topics like mental health.
When it comes to reporting on suicide, recent research by the British Medical Journal found a link between standards of reporting and increases in suicide in the general population, particularly around celebrity suicides.
Collecting advice from three experienced journalists, Journoresources freelance journalist and editorial assistant Sian Bradley created a set of guidelines for responsible mental health reporting.
Bradley calls on journalists to read up on the updated guidelines set out by the Samaritans charity on reporting on suicide, and gathers collective wisdom on dealing with sensitive interviewing situations and where readers can find additional support.
"Signposting support is as crucial as familiarising yourself with responsible reporting guidelines. It moves your reportage from detached to empathetic, a quality that is essential to successful mental health reporting," it reads.
Learn more about overcoming the stigma of mental health at our upcoming Newsrewired digital conference from 1 December 2020. Book your ticket before Friday 6 November 2020 and save £50. Visit newsrewired.com for event agenda and tickets.
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