Suicide Messaging Best Practices

The following are recommendations for developing messages about Veteran suicide. When best practices are applied, messages can correct misconceptions, convey hope, and encourage help-seeking among those at risk for suicide.

Helpful Info

Leaders Suicide Prevention Safe Messaging Guide

Talking About Suicide Online

Social Media Reporting

Support Team

Psych Performance Team:

301-677-0646

KACC BH Clinic: 301-677-8895

CH: 301-395-1248

SPPM: 301-256-3503

Check the Connect to Care Portal for the printable toolkit.

Best Practice

Be informative without being sensationalistic.

Use the terms “died by suicide” or “killed himself/herself.”

Avoid

Avoid detailing the method of suicide. Avoid terms such as “commit suicide,” “successful/ unsuccessful suicide,” or “failed suicide attempt.”

Examples

SAY THIS: John Doe dead at 32.

NOT THAT: Navy hero John Doe, 32, commits suicide with shotgun in garage.

Best Practice

Report on suicide as a public health issue. Suicide does not discriminate; it is a leading cause of death among all Americans, not just Veterans.

Use non-sensational, objective terms such as “higher” or “increasing” to refer to differences in suicide rates.

Avoid

Avoid referring to suicide as an epidemic.

Examples

SAY THIS: Suicide is a national public health issue, with more than 45,000 Americans dying by suicide each year and rates increasing among people ages 10–75. New data shows a similar increase in deaths by suicide among Veterans. NOT THAT: Suicide among Veterans is an epidemic in the U.S., with mortality rates skyrocketing.

Best Practice

Use current Veteran suicide data. When presenting statistics, provide the relevant context, such as information on suicide in the U.S. as a whole.

Avoid

Avoid presenting the number of Veteran deaths by day as the only statistic, as it does not accurately reflect the full scope of the issue.

Eaxmples

SAY THIS: From 2015 to 2016, the overall Veteran suicide count decreased. (Uses current data and indicates the suicide count per year)

NOT THAT: 22 Veterans a day commit suicide. (Uses outdated data and indicates the suicide count per day)

For data on the last year available:

DoD Annual Report on Suicide In the Military CY21

Best Practice

Suicide is complex — there is no single cause. There are a number of factors that increase or decrease the risk for suicide. Research has also identified warning signs to help in recognizing someone at risk for suicide.

Portray post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as a treatable condition that can affect anyone, at any age. Not all Veterans have PTSD, and PTSD does not always cause suicide or suicidal ideation. Note that many common risk factors for suicide, such as psychiatric disorders, are treatable.

More information on PTSD is available at National Center for PTSD

Avoid

Avoid saying the suicide was random or was caused by a single or specific event. Avoid implying that all Veterans have PTSD, that PTSD is the sole cause of suicide, or that PTSD is untreatable.

Examples

SAY THIS: John Doe, Navy hero and father, died by suicide.

NOT THAT: John Doe, Navy hero and father, committed suicide after a public divorce.

Best Practice

Interview a suicide prevention expert, such as a VA Suicide Prevention Coordinator, a researcher, or a mental health professional, who can provide information on causes and treatment of suicidality.

Contact your Wing Suicide Prevention Program Manager at 301-256-3503 for more information.

Avoid

Avoid interviewing first responders (police, EMT, etc.) about circumstances surrounding the death.

Examples

SAY THIS: According to a Suicide Prevention Coordinator, signs of an emerging crisis may include appearing sad or depressed most of the time, feelings of hopelessness, and mood swings.

NOT THAT: According to the police officer on the scene, John Doe was reportedly in an angry rage over his job loss.

Best Practice

Portray or provide stories of hope and recovery. Inform readers of how they can find help and access resources.

Avoid

Avoid statements that discourage people from seeking help, that romanticize death, or that reinforce the inaccurate belief that nothing can be done about suicidal ideation or behaviors.

Examples

SAY THIS: John Doe told his wife about his suicidal thoughts, and she found resources to help him. Confidential support is available 24/7 from the Veterans Crisis Line 988, press 1

NOT THAT: John Doe exhibited some symptoms of PTSD. Diagnosing and recovering from PTSD is often a long and difficult process.

Suicide Messaging Best Practices

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Eaxmples

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