La cobertura del suicidio en los medios de comunicación tradicionales en colombia, antes y durante la pandemia (2018 - 2021)

Introduction: The WHO issued recommendations for responsible reporting on suicide, following evidence of the imitation effects of this behavior due to inappropriate reporting. The COVID-19 pandemic had a negative effect on the mental health of the human population, creating states of clear vulnerability. The main objective of this study was to analyze the characteristics of news stories about suicide published in traditional mass media in Colombia before and during the COVID-19 pandemic (2018-2021), according to the aforementioned recommendations. Methodology: A documentary study was conducted in which the content of 92 news stories about suicide was analyzed. Results: 100% of the news stories showed deficiencies in following the WHO recommendations, especially in taking the opportunity to educate the public about suicide (96.7%); using photographs or videos with caution (98.9%); paying attention when reporting on celebrity suicides (100%); and providing information on where to seek help (95.7%). There were differences in following the recommendations before and during the pandemic. Discussion: Compliance with WHO recommendations in the reporting of suicide was very low, which may be a risk factor that increases the likelihood of the Werther effect occurring. Conclusions: The mass media have a high responsibility in