Keith Flint, the iconic and well loved frontman of The Prodigy, took his own life this week. It shocked friends and fans alike, even his band mate Liam Howlett said he was 'shell shocked, angry, confused and heart broken'. You sometimes don't know what a person is going through until unfortunately, it is too late.

Reporting on suicides is a complicated and sensitive job, if it is handled badly it could have catastrophic consequences. If written the right way however, an article could encourage someone struggling with suicidal thoughts to seek help. It is good to celebrate their life and achievements, but over glorifying the victim could sway younger people already thinking about suicide towards it. The Worcester News reporters were given a hugely eye opening training session by a member of Samaritans on reporting on suicides. We were told to refrain from tributes containing quotes such as 'heaven has gained another angel.' The reason for this is that teenagers are often lacking in life experience and do not think in abstract terms about time and healing. They have not been through divorce or bereavement yet so they think what they are going through will never be remedied and will never end. When in fact, a mixture of time passing, talking to friends, family and sometimes professionals, as well as many other things can bring a person out the other side, as hard as it might be.

Therefore it is key that we emphasise this when talking about people who have taken their own lives, including celebrities. The Samaritans website says: "Research consistently demonstrates strong links between certain types of media coverage and increases in suicide rates. This risk significantly increases if details of suicide methods are reported, if the story is placed prominently and if the coverage is extensive or sensationalised – particularly in the case of celebrity deaths."

Suicide is not brave or special or heroic, but tragic and wasteful, leaving behind a wide sphere of pain. A message of support and care is needed to show people who are struggling that they are not alone.

Whatever you’re going through, you can call Samaritans free any time on 116 123 (this number will not appear on your phone bill), email jo@samaritans.org, or visit samaritans.org to find details of your nearest branch.