The Sydney Morning Herald article ‘Horrors of war  too much for soldier’ was StigmaWatched in 2007 for reporting suicide methods. Journalist Les Kennedy was contacted and urged to avoid information that may unintentionally contribute to self-harm by others. StigmaWatchers have since nominated a follow-up report in the Herald by Mr Kennedy, ‘Suicidal soldier’s depression not revealed to carers, doctor says,’ 24.1.08, for the Good News category.

The article, which focused on what lead to the suicide of Captain Paljakka, was praised for leaving out methods, for providing a balanced account of the circumstances of his death, and for highlighting important issues related to mental healthcare for military personnel. This responsible reporting drew attention to the need for systemic change in order to prevent further deaths.

StigmaWatch contacted Mr Kennedy to pass on the congratulations of readers.