Creating Positive Narratives Around Complex Issues

No matter what our cause, as communicators we all strive to educate and engage. This goal is often more complex in practice than theory, especially given the gravity of some of these topics – not to mention the complex, intersectional layers that define much of the work taking place in our field. Read on for four tips about how we can be good stewards of these causes and strengthen our impact.

In honor of Suicide Prevention Month, we’ve also included some examples connected to this particular topic.

1. Balance transparency with resilience – As communicators, we have a responsibility to accurately portray what’s happening in our communities and not “sugar coat” the truth. Alongside the facts, it’s also important to avoid painting a bleak picture of an insurmountable challenge. Narratives of hope and change – even small, incremental change – can help audiences understand your organization’s vision and offer support to those directly impacted by the issue.

The National Action Alliance for Suicide Prevention has developed a “Framework for Successful Messaging” that encourages organizations to promote “hope, connectedness, social support, resilience, treatment, and recovery” through their communications.

2. Highlight concrete ways to get involved – Once you’ve captured the attention of your target audiences, point them to specific actions they can take on behalf of your organization or the cause as a whole. Lift up solutions, successes, and resources that give people a sense of the power they have to make a difference.

NAMI’s website offers clear calls to action for both allies and clients.

3. Tell stories with dignity and respect – As we strive to put a human face on the impact our cause is making and tell “authentic” stories, we also have an opportunity – and responsibility – to tell stories in an ethical way. Find ways to give people ownership over their story.

Recently, our founder R. Christine Hershey sat down with storytelling expert Michael Kass to discuss what it looks like to shift storytelling from a tactic to a cultural norm within an organization.

4. Lead by example and share your knowledge – When it comes to the language we use and the way we frame issues, draw on your organization’s subject-matter expertise to model – and encourage – best practices. Your audiences, partners, and even the media want be part of the solution, so equip them with resources to help them do that.

Didi Hirsch Mental Health Services developed a great set of guidelines to educate members of the media and make it easy for them to adopt appropriate language in their coverage of suicide.

How does your organization keep communications hopeful, helpful, and constructive? Share your thoughts on social media and tag us on Twitter and Facebook! We’d love to continue this important conversation.