It’s natural to want to offer help or supportive words when we see someone struggling. If a distressed follower seeks aid or expresses intentions to self-harm, consider these tips before engaging.
It’s natural to want to offer help or supportive words when we see someone struggling. If a distressed follower seeks aid or expresses intentions to self-harm, consider these tips before engaging.
Since most of us aren’t mental health professionals, we may lack the expertise to effectively handle sensitive mental health conversations.
Some followers seek genuine help, while others may seek connection. Acknowledge this complexity to maintain a balanced community response.
Redirect followers to seek help from their personal support networks rather than solely relying on online advice.
Overextending yourself to address community issues can harm your well-being. Set boundaries for healthy intervention.
Report concerning behaviors to platforms in cases of direct threats, self-harm content, and hate speech.
Report concerning behaviors to platforms in cases of direct threats, self-harm content, and hate speech.
Immediately report any direct threats of harm towards oneself or others to the platform.
If you come across material promoting or depicting cutting, disordered eating, or substance misuse, notify the platform promptly.
Report hate speech, harassment, or bullying that targets individuals or groups based on protected characteristics, such as race or religion, to the platform.
Explore topics uniquely relevant to your journey and audience. Engage with content that enhances your understanding and equips you to manage your specific mental health needs effectively.
A Project of The Jed Foundation in collaboration with the Mental Health Storytelling Coalition.
Is mental health advocacy a priority for you? Do you have ideas about info, tips or resources that could be added to the guide? Are you down to help us promote this guide to other creators?
If so, DM The Jed Foundation or send us an email at [email protected].