For Media

Australian media, communications and public relations professionals play an important role in influencing social attitudes and perceptions of suicide and mental health concerns.

To support Australian media, Mindframe has developed this 'Media Industry Hub' section, highlighting some of the Mindframe resources and information that media commonly request.

A more comprehensive overview of suicide, mental health concerns, alcohol and other drugs, as well as other Mindframe-related information, can be found by browsing this website according to area of interest.

Australian media are a major source of information for the community. The way suicide, mental health concerns and alcohol and other drugs are reported or communicated about plays a huge role in demystifying negative stereotypes.

Mindframe has a collaborative relationship with the Australian media that spans over two decades. Most media outlets try to ensure that when reporting on suicide, it is not portrayed as a way to solve personal problems or as a successful outcome.

Syndicated content

In a media environment driven by fast moving online content, it’s crucial to stay aware of overseas syndicated content and the potentially harmful impact it may have on Australian audiences.

The rise in syndicated content lets media organisations pool resources and share coverage with anyone outside of their own regions or countries, allowing a single story to be duplicated across hundreds of local, national and international publications.

With no current guidelines or codes of practice in Australia for articles that are written and published by an international journalist and syndicated to Australian websites, Mindframe and SANE Australia have developed protocols for managing online syndication.

Mindframe’s national media guidelines give context to Australian media and communications professionals when reporting or covering a story about suicide or mental health concerns.

These evidence-based recommendations aim to reduce the impact of harmful content on audiences.

Read our news item: Managing the syndication trend of online media.

Mindframe media guidelines

When reporting, portraying or communicating about suicide or mental health concerns the Mindframe guidelines are able to provide support and guidance to media professionals.

The guidelines provide an overview on:

• communicating about a suicide death
• communicating about a person experiencing mental health concerns
• communicating about self-harm
• recommendations for reporting on eating disorders
• safe and inclusive language to use
• minimising details of method and location
• the importance of including help-seeking information

Access the guidelines:

• Mindframe media guidelines for reporting suicide
• Mindframe media guidelines for reporting mental ill-health

Help-seeking information and resources:

• Mindframe help-seeking information for a story on suicide
• Mindframe help-seeking information for a story on mental ill-health

When covering a story on suicide or mental health concerns think about your wellbeing:

Before covering a story

Before covering a story on suicide or mental health concerns for a media outlet, especially where violence and/or death is involved, you are advised to discuss the possible emotional, physical and logistical risks you may encounter with your editor or direct manager.

During story development

A small amount of distress following exposure to trauma is a common response and not a weakness. If you are feeling distressed, it can be helpful to discuss this with someone you trust. It's not weak, unprofessional or career-threatening to stop what you're doing and focus on your wellbeing.

After covering a story

It can be helpful to have a conversation with someone you trust, for example a peer or colleague who is a good listener. Speaking to a colleague who understands you can be extremely beneficial. If distress is prolonged please visit your GP, speak with a professional or contact a 24/7 support service.