In opening this column, we feel it is important to express our deepest condolences to Calvin Kennard's family and friends, who continue to mourn the loss of a son, brother and friend. Our hearts go out to you.
As journalists, we are occasionally called upon to cover sensitive subjects. In those cases, the Canadian Press Stylebook guides journalists to "do their work with compassion, good taste and respect for individual privacy." This week, we struggled to find that balance in covering a celebration of life held for Kennard Sept. 18.
While Kennard's cause of death was initially not disclosed to the public, his family was open with our reporters that he died by suicide. For this reason, we found it challenging to know what was appropriate when it came to publishing photos and stories about the celebration of life. Our foremost desire was – and still is – to respect his family and friends as they grieve.
Usually, a death by suicide is much more private and would not even come across our newsroom's radar. In this case, we – and the community at large – only became aware of Kennard's death because it was preceded by a missing person report.
Kennard was reported missing the day after National Suicide Prevention Day. This tragic occurrence underscores the importance of raising awareness. As Kennard's father told us this week, suicide and mental health need to be discussed more openly in an effort to prevent deaths of this sort.
We're also left feeling this is an important reminder to check in with those around us. If you are struggling with thoughts of suicide or other mental health challenges, please reach out for help. If you are not struggling, ask your loved ones how they are doing and be available to help them.
Out of respect for the Kennard family, we have chosen not to publish a survey question accompanying this editorial. Instead, we've compiled a list – by no means exhaustive – of some local resources and agencies equipped to assist anyone struggling with ideas of suicide.
Anyone struggling with thoughts of suicide can find help by contacting Health Link at 811, the Mental Health Help Line at 1-877-303-2642, Calgary ConnecTeen at 587-333-2724, the Calgary Distress Centre at 403-266-4357, Crisis Services Canada at 1-833-456-4566 or the Thumbs Up Foundation at thethumbsupfoundation.com/contact-us/
