LEarN About Suicide
-

#chatsafe global
A guide for communicating safely online about suicide

in collaboration with orygen

Before you post anything about suicide

Before you communicate online about suicide, take some time to think about the intention of sharing this post.

Remember that online posts can go viral and "once posted, always posted"
Be aware of where help resources are available
Be aware of the language and safety tips for discussing about suicide

More general safety tips for communicating about suicide online can be found here.

Photo Captions are for reference only, will not be in final version: http://www.istockphoto.com/sg/vector/veterinarian-gm150926370-21228082

Photo: http://www.istockphoto.com/sg/vector/veterinarian-gm150926370-21228082

Sharing your own experience

There may be times where you want to share your own experience with suicidal thoughts, feelings or behaviour.

There are some things you might want to consider before you do:

Your privacy
Share your experience in a safe and helpful way
It is helpful to emphasise the importance of seeking help early and messages that reduce stigma and promote hope and recovery
The use of “trigger” warnings
‍Trigger warnings are a statement at the start of your post that alerts that the post may contain distressing content

Communicating about someone you know who is affected

Everyone is entitled to privacy, including those who have died by suicide. If you’re concerned about someone because of their post, talk to the person directly.‍

Sharing about someone who has died by suicide

Only post what you know to be true - do not share information that you're unsure of or that you know is inaccurate
Do not speculate about an individual’s thoughts or feelings or about why the person took their life

Suicide of celebrities and public figures

Do not post or share content that speculates about the suicide of a celebrity before it has been confirmed by an official source
Do not post or share too many back to back posts, as too much exposure can have a negative effect on vulnerable people
The guideline for responsible media representations of suicide be found here

Photo: Watercolor old mint telephone

Photo: http://www.istockphoto.com/sg/vector/veterinarian-gm150926370-21228082

Responding to someone who may be suicidal

Reaching out can be an important source of affirmation, connection and support. It might also be life-changing.

Always take any online content that suggests a person may be thinking about suicide seriously.

Before responding to someone who has indicated they may be at risk of suicide, ask yourself:
- How are you feeling?
- Are you able to provide support to the person if needed?
If you decide to respond, let the person know that you care about them and respond without judgement, assumptions or interruptions
Else, you may also encourage them to seek help

Find out more about how you can be a support here.

Cheque Donations

Giro Donations

LEarN About Suicide-

#chatsafe globalA guide for communicating safely online about suicide

in collaboration with orygen

Before you post anything about suicide

Photo Captions are for reference only, will not be in final version: http://www.istockphoto.com/sg/vector/veterinarian-gm150926370-21228082

Photo: http://www.istockphoto.com/sg/vector/veterinarian-gm150926370-21228082

Sharing your own experience

Communicating about someone you know who is affected

Photo: Watercolor old mint telephone

Photo: http://www.istockphoto.com/sg/vector/veterinarian-gm150926370-21228082

Responding to someone who may be suicidal

click here to download the full guide or visit the #Chatsafe website.

For emotional support

24 Hour Hotline

E-mail

LEarN About Suicide
-

#chatsafe global
A guide for communicating safely online about suicide