Dear Editor,
Has Stabroek News changed its editorial policy in terms of how it can support suicide prevention efforts in Guyana? Guyanese media workers have been trained and oriented to guidelines for suicide reporting and to think of ways in which their reporting promotes suicide prevention. It is unfortunate if these guidelines have been thrown away.
SN used to at least include the phone numbers of the existing helplines in the stories they selected to report of those who have died by suicide. There are other guidelines which advocate media to keep pushing the stories where help is available and how to deal with the issue rather than to report on individual cases. In this pandemic and post-flood times, surely the readership of Stabroek News would also be interested in reporting of ways in which people who are feeling despair can find help. And reporting which helps to advocate for those services where they do not exist.
The Ministry of Health reports on its website that people can call 223-0001 or 223-0009, or call or text 623-4444 or 600-7896. Another hotline was also announced at 655-7233. There are reports that referrals from 914 and other NGOs can be made to provide support.
Sincerely,
Vidyaratha Kissoon
Editor-in-Chief’s note: There has been no change in Stabroek News’ policy to report sensitively and carefully on suicides.