Instagram introduces new suicide prevention tools to save lives
The new feature let users report posts that exhibit suicidal tendencies.
In the wake of the growing number of suicide incidents, Instagram has introduced a new tool to help people before they hurt themselves.
If a post of someone you know shows warning signs of an eating disorder or tendencies towards self-harm (or suicide), you can report it anonymously. That person will then get a message which says, "Someone saw one of your posts and thinks you might be going through a difficult time. If you need support, we'd like to help." That person will then get the options to choose between talking to a friend, contacting a helpline or getting tips and support.
The social media website hopes that new features will make the world a better and safer place.
“We listen to mental health experts when they tell us that outreach from a loved one can make a real difference for those who may be in distress. At the same time, we understand friends and family often want to offer support but don’t know how best to reach out,” said Instagram’s Chief Operating Officer, Marne Levine in an interview with Seventeen. “These tools are designed to let you know that you are surrounded by a community that cares about you, at a moment when you might most need that reminder.”
As an added precaution, Instagram has also ban photos with any hashtag connected to harming one's self.
To develop this feature, Instagram collaborated with National Eating Disorders Association and The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.
It is no doubt that social media site like Instagram, Twitter and Facebook have a significant impact on our lives. This is just one instance which shows how these websites can have a positive influence on people. Hopefully, this trend will follow for years to come.