Gangtok: The Sikkim government has released an advisory urging media outlets to adopt responsible practices when reporting on suicide cases, aiming to curb harmful narratives and promote mental health awareness. The directive, issued by the Health and Family Welfare Department, emphasizes the need for sensitive coverage to prevent triggering vulnerable individuals and reduce stigma surrounding mental health issues.
The advisory outlines key guidelines for journalists, including avoiding sensational headlines, refraining from sharing graphic details or images, and not speculating on the causes of suicides. It encourages media to focus on stories of resilience, recovery, and available support systems. The government also stressed the importance of including helpline numbers and mental health resources in reports to guide those in distress toward professional help.
To support this initiative, the advisory lists several helpline numbers for immediate assistance, such as the Sikkim Police Suicide Prevention Helpline and national mental health helplines. These resources aim to provide timely support to individuals facing emotional or psychological crises.
This move comes in response to growing concerns over the impact of irresponsible reporting on public perception and mental health outcomes. Sikkim, which has one of the highest suicide rates in India, is actively working to address the issue through initiatives like the Sikkim Suicide Prevention and Action Network (SPAN) and school-based mental health programs. The government’s latest advisory underscores its commitment to fostering a compassionate and informed approach to tackling this public health challenge.
