Trigger warning: Mention of suicide 

The Department of Health (DOH) in Eastern Visayas has taken a proactive approach to preventing suicide incidents by organizing an orientation on ethical and responsible reporting of suicide. 

The initiative aims not only to provide guidance to journalists but also to foster a collective effort to curb the concerning trend of copycat suicides in the region, also known as the Werther Effect.

Suicide phenomenon

The Werther effect, also referred to as suicide contagion or copycat suicide, is a phenomenon in which people who are exposed to media reports or depictions of suicide may develop suicidal thoughts. 

The phrase comes from Johann Wolfgang von Goethe's book "The Sorrows of Young Werther," in which the protagonist commits suicide and inspires other young men who relate to him to follow in his footsteps.

According to the DOH, extensive or sensationalized media coverage of suicide has the potential to glamorize or normalize suicidal behavior, prompting imitation by vulnerable individuals. This effect is powerful when the suicide is depicted in a detailed or graphic manner and when the person who committed suicide is portrayed sympathetically or heroically.

Douna Salazar, health program officer of the DOH, encouraged journalists to practice ethical and responsible reporting, especially in the portrayal of suicide based on the DOH Administrative Order 2023-0004. 

Salazar shared information on how to seek help from the DOH and the World Health Organization to mitigate the Werther effect. This includes consulting mental health professionals to ensure accurate and sensitive reporting.

Alarming statistics

The figures shared during the orientation provided a grim picture. 

In Leyte, the DOH recorded 22 suicide cases this year, including one latest incident that still needs to be verified.

Eastern Visayas has seen a continuous increase in suicide cases during the COVID-19 pandemic, with figures rising from 24 in 2020 to 26 cases in 2021, 49 cases in 2022, and 95 cases in 2023. These findings indicate a more significant trend is sweeping the region.

Winnie Dorego, regional mental health program coordinator of the DOH Eastern Visayas Center for Health Development (EVCHD), advised the local media to take joint action in handling suicide reporting with sensitivity while ensuring the data presented is truthful and reliable. As part of their initiative to intensify the campaign, they have coordinated with the Philippine National Police to deliver accurate suicide reports for Eastern Visayas or any province in the region.

There is hope

The health agency has prioritized promoting community-based mental health. As part of this initiative, they encouraged local communities to take action, including trained healthcare workers.

They have appreciated any efforts from local government units, private partners, or socio-civic groups to provide mental health training or advocacy at the grassroots level. This way, community members can become mental health advocates in their barangays and homes.

It was emphasized that help is readily available for those who need it. Hotlines such as 0966-351-4518 and the National Center for Mental Health (NCMH) Crisis Hotlines (0917-899-8727 or 1553) provide a lifeline to individuals struggling with mental health challenges. These hotlines offer prompt psychological first aid and support 24/7.

As Eastern Visayas deals with the complex issue of mental health, one thing is clear: it will require a collective effort to combat this silent epidemic. The region can pave the way toward healing and resilience by practicing ethical journalism, mobilizing the community, and standing in solidarity. (AAC, PIA Leyte)