A practical resource for professionals writing or commissioning responsible reporting about male suicide. It summarises key Samaritans media guidance and links to the relevant Samaritans pages for full detail and up-to-date guidance.

Estimated reading time: 2 minutes

Who this resource is for

This resource is for people working in health, social care, mental health, and the voluntary sector who:

• Write or commission content that mentions suicide.
• Publish reports, blogs, case studies, or campaigns involving men’s mental health.
• Manage organisational social media.

It summarises key points from Samaritans’ media guidance about responsible reporting of suicide (including male suicide) and links you to the full guidance for detail and updates.

Core principles (based on Samaritans’ guidance)

1) Do not include method details

Avoid describing methods, especially in headlines, metadata, or image captions.

2) Avoid sensational language and framing

Steer clear of dramatic headlines and phrases that glamorise, normalise, or portray suicide as inevitable.

3) Do not oversimplify causes

Avoid presenting a single “trigger” or cause. Suicide is complex and usually involves multiple interacting factors.

4) Use imagery with care

Avoid dramatic or emotive images that can increase identification or distress.

5) Signpost support clearly

Include clear, direct signposting to support. Prefer simple, prominent placement.

Practical checklist (for editors and comms teams)

• No method details, locations, or “how-to” content
• Headline is factual and not emotive
• No speculative cause/trigger narrative
• Minimal repetition and no unnecessary prominence
• Comments and social distribution considered carefully
• Clear signposting included (Samaritans and local urgent pathways)

Where to read the full guidance

Use these Samaritans pages for the full detail and updates:

• Samaritans’ media guidelines for reporting suicide
• 10 top tips for reporting suicide
• Suicide facts for journalists and programme makers

Suggested signposting wording for your organisation

• Short version:If you are struggling to cope or worried about someone else, Samaritans are here day or night, 365 days a year. Call 116 123 for free.
• Longer version:Support is available. If you need to talk, Samaritans are available 24/7 on 116 123. If someone is in immediate danger, call 999.

Related links:

• Get support – Men’s mental health
• What to do in a crisis – Men’s mental health