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.

Avoid assuming responsibility. Since most of us aren’t mental health professionals, we may lack the expertise to effectively handle sensitive mental health conversations.

Consider varied motivations. Some followers seek genuine help, while others may seek connection. Acknowledge this complexity to maintain a balanced community response.

Encourage real-world support. Redirect followers to seek help from their personal support networks rather than solely relying on online advice.

Prioritize your mental health. Overextending yourself to address community issues can harm your well-being. Set boundaries for healthy intervention.

Prioritize community safety. Report concerning behaviors to platforms in cases of direct threats, self-harm content, and hate speech.

Direct threats: Immediately report any direct threats of harm towards oneself or others to the platform.

Self-harm content: If you come across material promoting or depicting cutting, disordered eating, or substance misuse, notify the platform promptly.

Hate speech: Report hate speech, harassment, or bullying that targets individuals or groups based on protected characteristics, such as race or religion, to the platform.

Phone and Text Lines: You can encourage your followers to call the Suicide and Crisis Hotline at 988 or text HOME to 741-741 for a free, confidential conversation with a trained counselor 24/7.

General Online Resource Centers:
Mental Health is Health
JED Mental Health Resource Center

LGBTQIA+ Resources and Hotline:
The Trevor Project
Call 1-866-7386 or text START to 678-678

Domestic Violence Resources and Hotline:
Domestic Violence Hotline
Call 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or text START to 88788

Treatment Locator:
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)’s Treatment Locator can help your followers find qualified mental health professionals in their area.