Instagram Add New Feature That Can Help With Depression

According to the World Health Organization, an estimated 350 million people of all ages suffer from depression.

And Instagram want to help. 

They've added a new feature which allows users to anonymously flag a photo when they think someone needs help. Once the photo is flagged, the person will receive a message that reads “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.” After receiving this message, they will receive different options to get help.

In order to create messages that will seem helpful, rather than invasive, Instagram is working with organizations like the National Eating Disorders Association and the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.

“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’s Chief Operating Officer 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.”

Additionally, if you search for hashtags that are associated with self-harm, you will notice that most of them are banned, and for those that are still featured, support options will pop up.

This is awesome! So good to see big companies stepping up to help. 

Where to get help:

• Lifeline: 0800 543 354 (available 24/7)

• Suicide Crisis Helpline: 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO) (available 24/7)

• Youthline: 0800 376 633

• Kidsline: 0800 543 754 (available 24/7)

• Whatsup: 0800 942 8787 (1pm to 11pm)

• Depression helpline: 0800 111 757 (available 24/7)

• Rainbow Youth: (09) 376 4155

• Samaritans: 0800 726 666

• If it is an emergency and you feel like you or someone else is at risk, call 111.