Journalists: Help get the word out about suicide prevention

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Suicides happen every day, but with the recent high profile cases of fashion designer Kate Spade and chef and storyteller Anthony Bourdain taking their own lives, it’s a good time to help get the word out about the resources that are available for those who are considering suicide.

It’s also worth noting that the following services are not just for those considering suicide or harm to themselves — they welcome inquiries from anyone who is faced with emotional challenges.

• Phone: 800-273-8255 (TALK). This number is routed to the National Suicide Prevention Helpline, which is available 24/7/365. The number 800-SUICIDE, originally meant a Veterans Crisis Line, is routed to the same response centers as the 800-273-8255.
• TTY: 800-273-8255. For those living with low or no hearing, the number also accepts TTY calls.
• Live Chat: www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org/chat.
• Twitter: The National Suicide Prevention Helpline’s Twitter handle is @8002738255, but the account bio says it is not monitored at all times, so it may not be advisable to offer this as a resource.
• Hashtag: The National Suicide Prevention Helpline is raising awareness of suicide and suicide prevention via the hashtag #BeThe1To. However, it is not advisable to use this as a resource for those in crisis.
• Facebook Messenger: www.facebook.com/800273talk or m.me/800273talk. This service is also maintained by the National Suicide Prevention Helpline.
• SMS: Text HOME to 741741. This service lets those in crisis SMS or text message with a trained counselor with the Crisis Text Line.
• Emergency room or 911: Finally, those in crisis can also be directed to their local emergency room or to call 911 or other local emergency number.

Of course, if you or someone you know are having thoughts about suicide, reach out via any of the methods above.

Remember, journalism can be a stressful job that puts pressure on personal and family lives as well — so you yourself may want to consider adding these numbers to your own contacts so they are available if you ever need them.

If you’d like to help get the word out, consider including all or some of these services in full screen graphics, bugs, lower thirds, social media profile or posts or other places on air or online.

While these resources can be especially relevant during coverage of high profile suicides, suicide is an everyday challenge, so considering getting the word out periodically as well.

Finally, one final tip — double and triple check you’ve gotten the numbers and letters right so that people don’t experience technical difficulties trying to reach out for help.