Instagram's new support tool could help people with mental illness

LONDON -- For many people, Instagram is a place where we share moments from our daily lives that bring us joy.

But it's also a space where people share their innermost thoughts and, sometimes, cries for help. Instagram is launching a support tool which allows people to do something if they feel people are in danger of self-injury.

If you see someone post about self-harm, you'll now be able to anonymously report it. Instagram will send the user a message saying: "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."

Original image has been replaced. Credit: Mashable

The user will be offered a selection of options that can be accessed through the app, including a helpline appropriate to the user's location, in addition to talking to a friend or getting tips and support, reports Seventeen. Users will also be directed to the support page if they attempt to search for a hashtag related to self-injury. "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," Instagram COO Marne Levine told 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," Levine continued. Instagram worked with the National Eating Disorders Association and the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline to make sure the language used in the support tools was appropriate.

Mashable has reached out to Instagram for comment and will update this post.

If you want to talk to someone or are experiencing suicidal thoughts, text the Crisis Text Line at 741-741 or call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255. For international resources, this list is a good place to start.