As September marks Suicide Prevention Month and the 4th annual 988 Day (9/8), leaders from the Kansas Suicide Prevention Coalition are calling on media, journalists, and community influencers across the state to adopt safe reporting practices that promote hope, recovery, and access to care.
Research shows that media coverage plays a critical role in shaping public understanding of suicide experience.
Unsafe reporting can contribute to contagion, increasing risk among vulnerable individuals. At the same time, responsible, solution-focused storytelling can reduce stigma, encourage help-seeking, and ultimately save lives.
Experts recommend following evidence-based guidelines from ReportingOnSuicide.org, which include:
- Avoiding detailed descriptions of suicide methods or locations
- Not sensationalizing or oversimplifying causes
- Using non-stigmatizing, person-centered, hopeful language and imagery
- Highlighting stories of hope, recovery, and resilience
- Including crisis resources in all coverage
One of the most important resources to share is the Kansas 988 Lifeline, which provides free and confidential support 24/7 via call, text, or chat. Please continue to offer information about the Kansas 988 Lifeline in media stories about suicide or mental and behavioral health issues by using this tagline: If you or someone you know is struggling, call, text or chat with the Kansas 988 Lifeline for support, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Visit Kansas988.org to get connected.
“Media coverage has the power to influence whether someone reaches out for help,” said Lisa Orrison, Vice President of the Kansas Suicide Prevention Coalition, “When stories emphasize that recovery is possible and that support is available, they can truly save lives.”
Throughout September, organizations across Kansas will engage communities through awareness campaigns, trainings, and outreach efforts focused on connection, prevention, and support. Media outlets are encouraged to take a solutions-oriented approach by highlighting local programs, sharing lived experiences responsibly, and reinforcing that help is accessible and effective.
For media inquiries, interviews, or additional resources, please contact:
Kane Sheek
Program Coordinator, Kansas Suicide Prevention Coalition
ksheek@dccca.org
816-674-9821
