I have reported on 30 Korean celebrity suicides. The blame game never changes

I have been wondering for a while what the stats are on suicide rates in all modernized countries since the advent of the internet and if they have gone up over the years as internet usage and news coverage via the internet has become more prolific.

While there are many underlying problems that might cause depression and ways to treat those, I wonder if the ultimate decision of suicide has gone up with more prolific news coverage of it. While I do think the victims should be mourned, I can also see it looking like an appealing avenue for those looking for a way out by making a statement or possibly gain the favor of the public again when they feel they have no other resort. Even in the quote you linked, the celebrity wanted a last interview, they wanted to make sure their message got out there.

Lets face it, as AWFUL and tragic its is, suicide victims do in fact become "stars" for a bit. All eyes are on them, everyone is talking about them. I just wonder if that coverage culture contributes to suicide becoming a more appealing option for those that might consider it.

/r/kpop Thread Parent Link - theguardian.com