Impact of media interventions on the quality and quantity of suicide media reporting in Guyana 2013-2023

Suicide is recognised as a significant issue in Guyana and several interventions have been implemented to improve media reporting practices. To our knowledge, Guyana is the only country in the world with a current restriction on the reporting of suicide incidents. This observational case series study aims to examine the impact of different media interventions on the quantity and quality of suicide-related newspaper reporting in Guyana from 2013 to 2023. This is the first study to compare the impact of the different types of media interventions and the second to assess the impact of media legislation.

Eligibility screening identified 1670 articles. Descriptive data extraction and quality assessment was conducted for a stratified random sample of 545 (32 %) articles using the WHO 16 item media assessment tool. Logistic regression and Joinpoint regression were performed to assess statistical significance.

There was a significant sustained reduction in quantity of suicide-related reporting. Whilst adherence to protective reporting factors was low overall, there was a significant increase in the provision of support service contact provision. There were also significant reductions in the use of stigmatising language and reporting of suicide method.

The overall improvement in quality is attributed to sustained media engagement, rather than the strength of any intervention. Guideline clarity, monitoring feedback, and applied training may be needed to achieve greater adherence to guidelines. The reduction in quantity of reporting is associated with a prominent media training and legislation.