In today's episode of Psych Talk I discuss the concept of suicide contagion, otherwise known as "copycat suicide." Given the sensitive nature of this episode (i.e., discussion of suicide, at one point suicide means are mentioned) please take care of yourself when listening or skip this episode if you feel it will be harmful to your mental health.
Suicide contagion refers to the process whereby one suicide increases the likelihood that others will attempt or die by suicide. In this episode I discuss who is vulnerable to suicide contagion and provide examples of suicide contagion. I discuss how the media contributes to suicide contagion, as well as the research on suicide clusters and adolescents being exposed to the suicidality of a peer, as well as other factors that contribute to suicide contagion. I end the episode by discussing ways to decrease the likelihood of suicide contagion including media reporting guidelines, school-based interventions, and how parents can talk to their kids and teens about suicide.
Media guidelines for suicide reporting: https://reportingonsuicide.org/
Crisis Line Resources:
Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: 988
Trevor Project Hotline for LGBTQ+ Youth: 1-866-488-7386
Thrive Lifeline: 1-313-662-8209
Call Black Line: 1-800-604-5841
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Life of Riley by Kevin MacLeod
