Research evidence shows that certain types of media depictions, such as explicitly describing a method, sensational and excessive reporting, can lead to imitational suicidal behaviour among vulnerable people.

In contrast, coverage describing a person or character coming through a suicidal crisis can serve as a powerful testimony to others that this is possible, and can encourage vulnerable people to seek help.

Samaritans’ media guidelines for reporting suicide for Ireland offer practical advice on how to reduce the risk of media coverage negatively impacting on people who may be vulnerable.