Suicides of four Texas sheriff’s deputies drive conversation online
In other conversations, commenters discussed going out alone despite anxiety.
In other conversations, commenters discussed going out alone despite anxiety.
This past week, social media users discussed the news that four current and former sheriff’s deputies in Texas had died by suicide in a six-week period. Additionally, in a viral post, a user asked for advice on going out alone despite anxiety, which prompted a flurry of tips and recommendations.
In response to these conversations, communicators may share suicide warning signs, the 988 Crisis & Suicide Lifeline and other mental health resources, and information about social anxiety.
Insights brought to you by the reporters and science writers of Public Good News (PGN), a nonprofit newsroom dedicated to improving community health.
What’s trending nationally in conversations about mental health
This past week, social media users reacted to the news that four current and former deputies from the Harris County Sheriff’s Office in Texas died by suicide in a span of six weeks. Some users expressed shock at the number of deaths within that time period, while others pointed to the mental health challenges that law enforcement officers face and called for increased access to mental health resources. Others speculated about what led to the suicides, with some bringing up conspiracy theories about the cause of death. One of the posts received approximately 22.9 million views and 5,700 comments as of April 3.
On March 30, a social media user asked for advice on how to go out alone despite anxiety. In response to the post—which received almost 17 million views and thousands of replies as of April 3—many users offered tips and recommendations, including trying solo-friendly spots like cafes or bookstores and bringing headphones, books, or podcasts for distraction. However, some commenters dismissed the original poster’s experience with anxiety and stigmatized mental health challenges.
Recommendations brought to you by the health communication experts behind Infodemiology.com.
Recommendations for public health professionals
Each week, the Infodemiology.com team will provide messaging recommendations in response to some of the trending narratives outlined above. These helpful tips can be used when creating content, updating web and FAQ pages, and developing strategy for messaging about mental health.
In response to conversations about suicide in law enforcement officers, communicators may highlight suicide warning signs and remind community members that the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available at any time. Circulating other available resources—such as therapist directories, support groups, local mental health centers, and mental health helplines—is also recommended.
Conversations about social anxiety are an opportunity to explain that it can cause people to become anxious or fearful when meeting new people or engaging in other social situations. Highlighting available treatment options, such as cognitive behavioral therapy or exposure therapy, is recommended. Some people benefit from medication like antidepressants in addition to therapy. Sharing therapist directories where people can search for providers who specialize in social anxiety is recommended. Communicators may also want to share tips for supporting loved ones who experience social anxiety.