How can you write a news story that is sensitive to issues of mental health?

1 Choose your words carefully

Language matters when it comes to mental health. Avoid using terms that are stigmatizing, sensationalizing, or inaccurate. For example, don't say someone is "crazy", "psycho", or "suffering from" a mental illness. Instead, use person-first language that respects their dignity and identity. For example, say someone "has" or "lives with" a mental illness, or use the specific diagnosis if relevant and confirmed. Also, be careful not to imply causality or blame when reporting on mental health issues. For example, don't say someone "committed suicide" or "snapped" because of a mental illness. Instead, say someone "died by suicide" or "experienced a mental health crisis".

2 Do your research

Mental health is a broad and diverse field that encompasses many different conditions, treatments, and perspectives. Don't rely on stereotypes, myths, or assumptions when writing about it. Do your research and consult credible sources, such as experts, organizations, or studies, that can provide accurate and up-to-date information. Be aware of the cultural, social, and historical context of mental health issues, and avoid generalizing or oversimplifying them. For example, don't assume that all people with depression feel the same way, or that all people with schizophrenia are violent. Also, be mindful of the potential harm or benefits of reporting on certain topics, such as suicide, self-harm, or recovery. Follow the guidelines and recommendations of professional bodies, such as the World Health Organization or the National Alliance on Mental Illness, on how to report on these topics safely and responsibly.

3 Include diverse voices

Mental health is not a monolithic or homogeneous experience. It is influenced by many factors, such as age, gender, race, ethnicity, sexuality, disability, class, and religion. Therefore, it is important to include diverse voices and perspectives when writing about it. Seek out and interview people who have lived experience of mental health issues, as well as their families, friends, and supporters. Respect their privacy, consent, and autonomy, and let them tell their own stories in their own words. Avoid tokenizing, exploiting, or sensationalizing them. Also, include voices of experts, advocates, and activists who can provide insight and analysis on mental health issues. Balance your sources and avoid presenting only one side or angle of the story.

4 Educate and empower your audience

One of the goals of writing about mental health is to educate and empower your audience. You want to inform them about the facts, challenges, and solutions related to mental health issues, and inspire them to take action or seek help if needed. Therefore, avoid using a negative or hopeless tone when writing about mental health. Instead, use a positive or hopeful tone that highlights the resilience, strength, and recovery of people who live with mental health issues. Provide your audience with useful and relevant information, such as signs, symptoms, treatments, resources, or support options. Also, challenge the stigma and discrimination that people with mental health issues face, and promote the values of empathy, respect, and inclusion.

5 Check your own biases and assumptions

Finally, as a journalist, you need to check your own biases and assumptions when writing about mental health. You may have personal or professional experiences, opinions, or beliefs that influence how you perceive and portray mental health issues. You may also have internalized some of the stigma or stereotypes that exist in society. Therefore, you need to be aware of and acknowledge your own positionality and potential biases, and strive to be objective and fair when reporting on mental health. Seek feedback and guidance from your colleagues, editors, or mentors, and be open to learning and improving your writing skills. Also, take care of your own mental health and well-being, and seek support if you feel stressed, overwhelmed, or affected by the stories you cover.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?