Identify a Distressing Post on Facebook? Here's Your Course of Action

Identify a Potential Suicide Mention on Facebook? Here's Your Response Plan

Facebook is taking a significant step towards promoting mental health awareness by expanding its suicide and self-harm prevention tools. The social media giant is testing these expanded tools in select countries before a global rollout.

The new tools aim to equip users with the resources they need to support friends who may be struggling with mental health issues. These tools will be available within Facebook's main app and Messenger, making them easily accessible to users.

One of the key features of the expanded tools is a suggested language option. This feature helps users reach out to a person in distress in a supportive and empathetic manner. The tool also includes contact information for help lines and resources for mental health support in the user's local area.

Facebook's expanded tools will offer users a way to track their mental health over time, providing them with self-care tips and coping strategies. The tool also features information on prevention and what to do if a user feels suicidal.

In addition, Facebook is partnering with mental health organizations to provide these resources. This collaboration aims to ensure that the information provided is accurate, reliable, and helpful.

If a user comes across a post that suggests suicide or self-harm, they can report it using a drop-down menu. To do this, they should click "report this post," "I think it shouldn't be on Facebook," and then the self-harm/suicide option. Facebook's specially trained team can evaluate reports of self-harm and suicide around the clock daily.

Facebook's expanded tools will also allow users to connect with mental health professionals directly. This feature is designed to provide immediate help to those in need.

Facebook's aim is to use its extraordinary reach to assist those in need, and these expanded tools are a significant step towards achieving that goal. The company recognises the importance of mental health and is committed to using its platform to make a positive impact.