It is okay to talk about how life problems, cultural factors and toxic masculinity may impact a young man’s ability to talk about their problems or seek help, or as possible contributing factors to why a young person might be feeling hopeless, drinking more, or isolating themselves (which are warning signs for suicide), but the film should not point to just one of these events as the cause of suicide or mental illness.
It is important that the message of the film does not reinforce negative stereotypes or use harmful statistics. For example, the film should not insinuate that just by being a boy or young man (or part of any culture or group), a person is more likely to attempt suicide or have a mental illness. By inappropriately using data or making generalizations, the film might inadvertently increase stigma or reduce protective factors around suicide.
While filmmakers are encouraged to thoughtfully challenge traditional masculinity stereotypes, this should be done in ways that are accurate and culturally sensitive, ensuring all individuals and communities are realistically and respectfully depicted.
The film should use inclusive language such as:
- Use “died by suicide” or “took their own life” (do not use committed suicide).
- Use person-first language when referring to people who are living with mental health challenges. For example,they are “experiencing a mental health challenge; or, “they were diagnosed with bipolar disorder.”
- Films should not use derogatory terms (such as “crazy,” “psycho,” or “insane”)
