In the wake of the recent passing of Robin Williams, we at The Pacer have decided to address the media’s handling of his death.
We think much of the mainstream media was not only unnecessarily judgmental, but also insensitive in its coverage of his death. As journalists, it is our job to report the news, which is the facts. We must report these facts while still being respectful and sensitive to the deceased’s grieving family. As reporters of truth, it is necessary to investigate what led to the suicide, such as whether or not outside contributing factors were involved. However, it is absolutely not our job, as the media, to pass judgment or to determine a person’s mental state at the time of his or her death.
Several mainstream media outlets have had to issue apologies for their crass comments or actions involving Williams’ death. ABC news received negative feedback during a live aerial feed of Williams’ house moments after news of his death broke. According to Deadline.com ABC News later issued an apology in a formal statement.
“When we realized there was no news value to the live stream, we took it down immediately.”
Fox News’ Shepard Smith was slammed for using the word “coward” in reference to Williams’ reported battle with depression and the resulting suicide. According to DailyMail.com Smith later issued an apology.
“To the core of my being I regret it. It just came out of my mouth.”
These types of things of should never happen. When reporting on a suicide, we have to be careful not to exploit the tragedy, especially in the case of a celebrity. How we report it, is just as important as what we report.
We are journalists, and the fact is Williams suffered from depression. Depression is a disease that is real, common and more importantly treatable. Unfortunately, along with it, there is a stigma that we hope to help remove. Depression is an insidious disease, a mental illness in which an individual can look completely “normal” on the outside, yet be struggling on the inside. There is absolutely no reason to feel ashamed about seeking treatment for a mental illness. If a person were to be diagnosed with cancer, they would most likely be encouraged to seek treatment. Why shouldn’t the same be true for someone with depression?
If at any time you feel overwhelmed, frustrated, a loss of interest in normal activities or notice any unusual behavior, do not ignore these signs. Do not allow them to take root and grow into larger, more serious issues. If you notice a friend who may be displaying abnormal behavior, be a guiding light to help.
Featured Photo: Actor Robin Willams is pictured with his wife, Susan Schneider and daughter, Zelda Williams. (Katy Winn, Wire Photo)
