Equipping users with the tools they need to stay safe online
Whether you’re trying to raise awareness, you’ve seen something in the media, or you’re sharing your personal experience, the things we say about suicide online makes a difference. Posting safely can even reduce the risk of suicidal feelings and behaviours in others and encourage people to seek help.
There are things we can all do to talk about suicide online in a safe way
Top tips on posting safely
The internet can be an invaluable space for individuals experiencing self-harm and suicidal feelings. It provides opportunities to access information, find options for support, and provides a platform to speak openly about difficult feelings that can be challenging to discuss face to face. However, it can also carry potential risks by presenting opportunities to access content can be distressing, triggering and may act to encourage, maintain or exacerbate self-harm and suicidal behaviours.
Samaritans have launched the campaign to equip people with the skills they need to stay safe when posting about self-harm and suicide online or when going online to seek support.
The campaign has been co-developed with young people with lived experience of self-harm and suicidal thoughts and feelings who are passionate about making the internet a safer space. Catherine, Elsa, Emily and Joe have each recorded a video explaining the importance of posting responsibly.
Worried about another user online?
If you’re worried about someone online because of the way they’re acting or the things that they’re posting, you can:
- Offer them support if you feel comfortable
- Tell someone you trust
- Report it on the platform they’re using so they can provide support