Suicide and Mental Illness in the Media: A Mindframe resource for the mental health sector comprises a range of new resources produced for the mental health sector under the Mindframe National Media Initiative. The resources, which include a website, resource book and quick reference cards, contain information on talking to the media about suicide
and mental illness. The aim of the resources is to support accurate and appropriate reporting that will minimise the risk of harm and reduce the stigma experienced by people who live with a mental illness.

What is the Mindframe National Media Initiative?

The Mindframe National Media Initiative is funded by the Australian Government Department of Health and Ageing through the National Suicide Prevention Strategy and the National Mental Health Strategy. It is a comprehensive initiative that aims to influence media coverage of issues related to mental illness and suicide and support accurate, responsible and sensitive reporting.

Why are these resources needed?

People in the mental health sector have been identified as a key source of information for media professionals preparing stories on these issues. This puts them in a unique position to work with the media to support sensitive and appropriate reporting. People in the mental health sector can do this by making sure they provide information in a manner consistent with the Mindframe principles and promote Mindframe to media professionals with whom they have contact.

The media have an important role to play in informing and influencing social attitudes to suicide and mental illness and the people affected by these issues. Research has demonstrated a link between some types of reporting and harm to vulnerable people in the community. Conversely other types of reporting have been linked with more positive outcomes. It is important therefore that people involved in mental health learn how to work with the media to ensure that the right messages get through.

What information will I find in the resources?

The resource book contains information about the effects of different types of reporting suicide and mental illness and issues to consider when talking to the media; information about the media and guidance on planning for media contact, responding to media requests and responding to media coverage; and facts and statistics and contacts that may be useful in preparing to work with the media. The key sections of the resources are those that specifically outline issues to consider when talking to the media about suicide, mental health and mental illness. The Issues to Consider sections are based on research evidence and Mindframe suggestions for media professionals.

Where can I get Suicide and Mental Illness in the Media?

Downloadable pdf copies of the resource book, a general quick reference card and a specific quick reference card for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations can be downloaded from the website at  www.mindframe-media.info/mentalhealth/downloads For more information about the resources and their availability please
contact the Program Manager, Jaelea Skehan, at the Hunter Institute of Mental Health.

Tel: (02) 4924 6727 Email: jaelea.skehan at hnehealth.nsw.gov.au