Shortly after media outlets began to report on Kate Spade's death, the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention released a statement. In this statement the organization emphasized that journalists need to talk about suicide in a responsible manner.
A document that is referenced in this statement includes a list of tips that journalists should follow when reporting on suicide. Unfortunately, I have seen some journalists and news outlets completely disregarding these guidelines.
A sensationalized or graphic headline can be more harmful than you think.
I found that out firsthand while looking through articles on Kate Spade. The headlines were particularly upsetting, so I've decided to focus on them here.
I have struggled with depression for most of my life, and I am recovering from suicidal thoughts. Although news headlines on tragedies tend to upset me, some news headlines about Kate Spade brought back terrible feelings for me. Many of these news headlines featured details on how Kate Spade ended her life. The imagery that appeared in my mind brought back horrible memories of my own struggles.
I clicked away immediately, but it bothered me for most of the day. This is the problem with sensationalized and graphic news headlines. This is why there are guidelines on ethical news reporting on suicide. I'm lucky that I have developed coping skills to deal with reminders like this. That's not the case for everyone, though.
People like me who have struggled in the past should not be reminded of ways they could end their lives.
Let me provide you with a few examples of awful news headlines about Kate Spade's death. I will also provide links to them. If you are sensitive to details about suicide, please skip this section. I am providing these headlines to show readers how irresponsible journalists can be when it comes to reporting on suicide. Some of these articles contain graphic photos. I do not suggest reading them.
Let's examine what's wrong with these headlines.
The Baltimore Sun: "Kate Spade found dead by hanging at her Upper East Side home after telling her daughter it's not her fault in suicide note"
Why it's a bad headline: First, the headline gives details on how Kate Spade ended her life. This is discouraged by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention because it promotes contagion. Perhaps the worst part of this headline is the part about the suicide note. Mentioning her daughter is supposed to pull at the heartstrings of readers. This is wrong and trivializes suicide.
Daily Mail UK: "'I have always loved you.' Heartbreaking suicide note Kate Spade left for her daughter, 13, before hanging herself while her husband was in the next room, amid claims he was looking to move out over marital problems"
Why it's a bad headline: This is probably the worst headline I've seen about Kate Spade's death. First, the suicide note is described in detail. This can be dangerous because it promotes contagion (see the tips provided by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention). Second, this headline suggests that marital problems caused Kate Spade's death. Suicide is complex and often does not have a single cause. Speculating on why she may have ended her life is disrespectful and trivializes suicide.
It's also important to note that this article includes a picture of the body bag being brought out of the apartment. This is extremely disturbing and upsetting. It's also completely unnecessary. Journalists must have more respect for people who die by suicide and their families.
Santa Monica Observer: Suffering from Depression, Kate Spade Hangs Herself With Kate Spade Branded Scarf"
Why it's a bad headline: Pointing out that Kate Spade was suffering from depression isn't harmful, but providing details on the method used is very harmful. It also suggests that her suicide was symbolic. This romanticizes suicide and encourages others to use suicide to send a message.
The headlines that I've included above are only some of the bad headlines I've seen. If journalists want to promote positive discussions about mental health, they must follow the guidelines for reporting on suicide. The media influences the public in so many ways.
Let's make that influence positive.
If you are struggling with suicidal thoughts, there is hope. Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 or text "HOME" to 741-741. Click here for additional resources outside of the United States.
