PALO, Leyte: The Department of Health Eastern Visayas Center for Health Development (DoH-EVCHD) on Monday tackled the ethical principles and responsible reporting of suicide cases with members of the media and private citizens.

The discussion aimed to create awareness on mental health and suicide prevention.

Donna Salazar, program officer of the DoH-EVCHD health promotion unit, presented DoH Administrative Order 2023-0004, also known as the Guidelines for Ethical and Responsible Reporting and Portrayal of Suicide in Media, Audiovisual and Films, which provides instructions on appropriate and responsible suicide reporting.

Salazar highlighted the need for discretion in reporting, emphasizing the inclusion of important details and not to use judgmental or insensitive language to avoid sensationalism.

She suggested refraining from using words like "suicide" or "nagpakamatay" in headlines and cautioned against giving prominence to incidents of suicidal nature, and avoid putting it on front page of newspapers or in a significant segment on television.

She proposed regulating the comment section of social media posts to avoid the spread of triggering details.

Winnie Dorego, regional mental health program coordinator, noted the qualities that constitute an individual's strong mental health are recognizing skills; ability in coping to stressful situations; working productively; contributing to the community; and making rational decisions.

"Mental health is a spectrum in which individuals can be classified as healthy, coping, struggling, or unwell," Dorego said.

"When someone expresses a desire to die or is in terrible emotional or physical agony, get treatment from a medical or mental health expert. Never leave the person and take them seriously," she added.

Dorego cited a World Health Organization school-based student health study, which found that one in every ten students had considered suicide, with one attempt out of five.

"If there are students who frequently use their mental health as an excuse in their work, refer them to the school's guidance counselor," Dorego told The Manila Times.

Individuals seeking support are encouraged to reach out to the DoH-EVCHD hotline at 09474238423 or the National Center for Mental Health Crisis Hotline at 1553 and 09178998727, which are available 24/7 for prompt psychological first aid.

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