b'Key Messages for Media SpokespersonThis information is for use by the person designated by the school to speak with the media.Schools Messages We are heartbroken over the death of one of our students. Our hearts, thoughts, and prayers go out to their family and friends and the entire community. We will be offering grief counseling for students and staff starting on [DATE] and lasting through [DATE] or as long as needed. We will be hosting an informational meeting for parents and the community regarding suicide prevention on [DATE/TIME/LOCATION]. Experts will be on hand to answer questions. No TV cameras or reporters will be allowed in the school or on school grounds.Schools Response to the Media The media are strongly encouraged to refer to the document Recommendations for Reporting on Suicide. Research has shown that graphic, sensationalized, or romanticized descriptions of suicide deaths in the news media can contribute to suicide contagion (i.e., copycat suicides), particularly among youth. Media coverage that details the location and manner of suicide with photos or video increases the risk of contagion. Media should also avoid oversimplifying the cause of a suicide (e.g., student took their own life after breakup with girlfriend). This gives the audience a simplistic understanding of a complicated issue. Remind the public that in a majority of suicide deaths, mental health issues play an important role, underscoring the need to address mental health concerns proactively. Media should include links to or information about helpful resources, such as local crisis hotlines and the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (988).Information on SuicideSuicide is complicated and involves multiple risk factors. It is not simply the result of stress or difficult lifecircumstances. Many people who die by suicide have a mental health condition, the most common of which isdepression.Mental health conditions and substance abuse problems are treatable.The best way to prevent suicide is through early detection, diagnosis, and treatment of depression and othermental health conditions, including substance abuse problems.After a Suicide: A Toolkit for Schools|59'