Opinion: Taking steps to address suicide among Fort Peck youth

Monday, April 4, 2011  

"Youth suicide is difficult to talk about. A recent newspaper article from the Montana Associated Press about suicides in our Fort Peck, Assiniboine and Sioux tribes and Poplar K-12 schools was hurtful, misleading and unprofessional.

How we talk about suicide can leave a deep impact.

Everyone is fragile after such tragedies. Experts agree - and our experience confirms - grieving periods leave some vulnerable, including those who knew the victim or who may be likely to attempt.

When reporting on suicide, photos of grieving families, detailed descriptions of death and provocative quotes represent irresponsible journalism.

It is exploitive and offensive. The reporter's decision to write this story, despite requests not to, and his decision to overlook many positive actions in our community also shows a lack of respect."

Get the Story:
Charles Cook and James Melbourne: Talking about suicide's impact (The Bismarck Tribune 4/3)

Related Stories:
Editorial: Response plan needs to address Indian youth suicide (3/29)
Fort Peck Tribes still struggling with high rate of youth suicide (3/21)