A renewed look at reporting on youth suicide

HALIFAX, APRIL 12, 2013 – The tragic, complex and emotionally intense story of Rehtaeh Parsons has presented many challenges to all of us.  One of these challenges for mainstream media is how to most appropriately report, giving responsible consideration and balance to the many and sometimes competing interests.

In considering how Halifax based media have addressed this I have noticed that there has been an important and positive public health component developing.  In particular, readers, listeners and viewers have been given information about where to seek help if they need to.  As a mental health professional I would like to express my appreciation for this type of responsible journalism that supports the needs of the larger community.

Dr. Stan Kutcher
Sun Life Chair in Adolescent Mental Health
IWK Health Centre and Dalhousie University