Education of media representatives as a suicide prevention measure in the Republic of Croatia

Abstract According to the Croatian Institute of Public Health's Suicide Registry, Croatia has a higher suicide mortality rate than the average rate for EU member states. In 2024, 546 suicide cases were recorded in Croatia with a rate of 14.1/100,000 inhabitants, while the average rate at the EU level is 8.7/100,000 inhabitants. According to WHO recommendations and in accordance with the objectives of the Joint Action ImpleMENTAL, in which Croatia participated from 2021-2023, the Republic of Croatia has implemented a preventive program of training media representatives on responsible reporting on the problem of suicide, with an annual award given to the journalist who reports on this problem in the most appropriate way. In cooperation with the Croatian Institute of Public Health, representatives of non-governmental organizations dealing with suicide prevention and the Croatian Journalists’ Association, trainings were organized for media representatives, which were completed by 859 journalists in two years, and a Committee for the award of the annual award was formed, consisting of ten members. The Committee's task is to review all media reports dealing with the problem of suicide, which amounted to 253 media releases in 2023 and 345 media releases in 2024, and to select and evaluate all releases. This approach contributes to a more responsible, but more open conversation on the topic of suicide, while reducing stigma, raising awareness of mental health problems and the possibilities of obtaining adequate help. In addition to raising awareness, the development of an Action Plan for the Prevention and Treatment of Mental Disorders has begun, which emphasizes measures and activities for suicide prevention, including media education. Key messages • The way suicide is communicated and reported is important for the public's perception of the problem. • Adequate reporting contributes to raising awareness, open communication, and reducing stigma.