We live in a world consumed by details. We want to know who, what, where, and how of every story that flashes across our screens. It is an instinct born of natural human curiosity, and in mainstream journalism, uncovering every hidden layer is often praised as thorough work. But there is a line where curiosity ends and unintended harm begins.
Recently, the Ministry of Health and Mass Media, alongside the Office of the Director of Mental Health, gathered journalists, medical professionals, and policymakers at Waters Edge for a vital conversation on maintaining media ethics and promoting responsible reporting of suicides.
During the session, Consultant Psychiatrist Prof. Chathuri Suraweera shed light on a critical issue: the profound, adverse psychological impact that irresponsible suicide-related news coverage directly inflicts on our society. Her warnings underscored a truth we can no longer ignore: words have the power to wound, but they also have the power to heal.
Warning signs
To bridge this vital ethical conversation with practical, everyday awareness, the Sunday Observer spoked to Consultant Psychiatrist, Asiri Hospitals, Matara, Dr. Dhanuja Mahesh K. H. Moving beyond institutional guidelines, Dr. Mahesh unpacks the ground realities of mental health support, beginning with some of the common warning signs that may indicate a person is struggling with suicidal thoughts, and how family members or friends can recognise them early.
According to Dr. Mahesh, warning signs of suicidal thoughts often include withdrawal from family and friends, changes in sleep or appetite, loss of interest in usual activities, and expressing feelings of hopelessness or being a burden. Feelings of guilt may also be present. Family members may notice sudden mood swings, giving away possessions, or talking about death directly or indirectly.
Some actions also indicate a high risk, such as writing a last will or giving away possessions unexpectedly, sudden withdrawal from social connections or responsibilities, risk-taking behaviours such as reckless driving or substance misuse, and putting affairs in order by settling debts, saying goodbye, or making unusual arrangements.
Suicidal behaviour is often misunderstood by the public. When queried about some of the most common myths about suicide and what current research tells us instead, Dr. Mahesh explained that one common myth is that people who talk about suicide will not actually attempt it.
However, research shows that verbal expressions of hopelessness or wanting to die should always be taken seriously. Another misconception is that asking someone about suicidal thoughts might “put the idea in their head,” whereas evidence indicates that open, compassionate conversations can reduce risk and encourage help-seeking. A further myth is that suicide happens without warning, yet most individuals show behavioural or emotional signs beforehand. Current research show that recognising these realities helps families and communities respond early and effectively.
Psychological factors
When questioned about the psychological, social, and environmental factors that can increase a person’s vulnerability to suicidal thoughts, and how these factors typically interact, Dr. Mahesh said that psychological factors such as depression, anxiety, and feelings of hopelessness often make individuals more vulnerable to suicidal thoughts.
Social influences like family conflict, isolation, unemployment, or stigma can intensify this distress, while environmental pressures such as financial hardship, exposure to violence, or easy access to means of self-harm further increase risk. These factors rarely act alone; instead, they interact. Stressful life events can worsen mental illness, while a lack of social support can make coping harder, creating a cycle that heightens vulnerability.
When asked what the most helpful and appropriate steps are if someone suspects that a loved one may be at risk of suicide, Dr. Mahesh said the importance of starting with gentle concern.
He explained that this is a sensitive topic and that people should approach the person calmly while showing genuine care adding that one can say, “I’ve noticed you seem very down lately, and I’m worried about you. Can we talk?” He advised choosing a quiet, private setting, speaking softly and avoiding judgment and using open-ended questions to invite sharing.
He highlighted the importance of listening without judgment and allowing the person to express their feelings fully without interruption. Maintaining eye contact and attentive body language, avoiding rushing to provide solutions, and validating their emotions are all important. Simple statements such as, “It sounds like you’re carrying a lot right now,” can help the individual feel heard and understood.
Dr. Mahesh also highlighted the importance of encouraging professional help adding that a person should be guided to seek medical or counselling support. Family members and friends can offer to help make an appointment or accompany them if needed. He said that seeking help should be viewed as a sign of strength.
Ensuring immediate safety is another crucial step. Dr. Mahesh said that if the risk appears urgent, the person should not be left alone. Access to harmful means should be removed if possible, and emergency services should be contacted when necessary. He also requested the public to call 1926, Sri Lanka’s mental health helpline, in situations where immediate assistance is required.
Dr. Mahesh underscored the importance of staying connected adding that ongoing support reduces isolation and helps build hope. He encouraged family members and friends to check in on others regularly through calls or visits, encourage healthy routines such as adequate sleep, regular meals, and physical activity, and involve trusted relatives or friends to create a stronger support network.
Powerful role
In addition to these individual actions, Dr. Mahesh highlighted the broader role that communities, schools, workplaces, and the media can play in reducing suicide risk and promoting mental well-being and resilience.
Communities can reduce suicide risk by fostering supportive networks, reducing stigma, and ensuring access to local mental health resources. Schools play an important role through early identification, counselling services, and teaching resilience skills to young people. Workplaces can promote well-being by encouraging open dialogue, offering employee assistance programs, and recognising stress as a health issue.
The media, too, has a powerful role to play. According to Dr. Mahesh, responsible reporting helps shape public understanding by avoiding sensationalism and instead stories of recovery and hope can be highlighted. Such reporting can encourage help-seeking behaviour and strengthen resilience within communities. Ultimately, the combined efforts of families, professionals, communities, educational institutions, workplaces, and the media can contribute significantly to creating a society that is better equipped to support mental health and prevent suicide.
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