MJA issues guidelines on reporting mental health and self-harm

The Maldives Journalists Association (MJA) has issued guidelines for reporting incidents related to mental health and self-harm.

The guidance was released on Thursday in collaboration with the Maldivian Red Crescent (MRC).

According to the MJA, the guidelines were prepared following concern over the way recent incidents had been reported across media platforms.

The association said extensive coverage of self-harm can contribute to imitation and repetition, and called for more careful reporting practices.

The document encourages media outlets to publish content focused on recovery, resilience and access to professional support.

It also recommends following international standards, including guidance issued by the World Health Organization.

Under the guidelines, incidents should only be reported where there are suspicious circumstances or where publication is required in the public interest.

The MJA advised journalists to avoid publishing details of methods used, personal information about those involved, or content from notes or letters left before an incident.

It also said media should avoid photographs, video, audio recordings or social media links connected to such cases.

The guidelines discourage repeated coverage, simplified explanations of causes, language that normalises self-harm, and prominent placement such as front-page stories or lead broadcast items.

They also advise against naming locations linked to incidents.

Among recommended practices, the MJA said journalists should report with sensitivity when speaking to families, friends or affected individuals.

It also called for accurate information on where people can seek help and support.

The association noted that covering such incidents can also affect journalists and said newsroom wellbeing should be taken into account.

When reporting cases involving public figures, the guidelines call for careful assessment of public interest and caution in presentation.