[gailtate]

Today’s Chron article hits on a topic of concern that has entered every newsperson’s consciousnesses that I have worked with or worked around. Privacy vs “news.” The University was not making coaches and teammates available to reporters. IMO, a correct policy.

However the line is fuzzy and very hard to figure out sometimes, especially in a breaking news situation. In the current sadness I believe there is worth by taking an approach that can help other troubled youth by treating the event long term. The Chronicle has published some terrific enterprise journalism (homelessness, Tenderloin drug use). It’s time to tackle youth suicide openly. Perhaps Outside the Lines has already done this but I don’t watch ESPN. This topic should not be buried.

Second that emotion. I speak as someone who's been there and in whose family there is a medical history of depression and suicide. The more sunshine on this topic, as well as compassion and empathy, the healthier for everyone. Obfuscation in the name of privacy is, quite literally, DEADLY. It is outdated.

[gailtate]

Today’s Chron article hits on a topic of concern that has entered every newsperson’s consciousnesses that I have worked with or worked around. Privacy vs “news.” The University was not making coaches and teammates available to reporters. IMO, a correct policy.

However the line is fuzzy and very hard to figure out sometimes, especially in a breaking news situation. In the current sadness I believe there is worth by taking an approach that can help other troubled youth by treating the event long term. The Chronicle has published some terrific enterprise journalism (homelessness, Tenderloin drug use). It’s time to tackle youth suicide openly. Perhaps Outside the Lines has already done this but I don’t watch ESPN. This topic should not be buried.

Second that emotion. I speak as someone who's been there and in whose family there is a medical history of depression and suicide. The more sunshine on this topic, as well as compassion and empathy, the healthier for everyone. Obfuscation in the name of privacy is, quite literally, DEADLY. It is outdated.