Instagram is launching a new tool that makes it easy to reach out to a friend or follower you feel may be suffering or going through a hard time.
While Instagram is obviously the place where people share photos of the best bits of their lives and videos of their most polished selves, mental health is a complex issue and what lies behind those filtered images can be very different.
But just as the social network is a tool to tell the world about your life story, it can also be the only outlet for people who feel isolated or alone and so it can be the platform they turn to first with a cry for help.
So Instagram’s developers have created an update that could help these very people if they’re struggling with life, mental health, emotions or having suicidal thoughts.
They believe it could even help save lives.
The social media app will now enable users to report posts from friends that have caused concern for their well being.
Image credit: Instagram
It works discreetly without any awkward confrontation and as soon as the post is reported, Instagram immediately reaches out to that person and sends a message anonymously on your behalf.
Instagram sends the user a message which tells them someone has seen their post and is concerned for their welfare.
“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,” said Instagram’s chief operating officer Marne Levine, according to the Mirror.
“At the same time, we understand friends and family often want to offer support but don’t know how best to reach out.
“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.”
The Instagram message also offers the users to ‘see support resources’ and there’s options to message a friend, contact a helpline, or get tips and support.
It could be a very powerful tool to help people struggling with depression, eating disorders, self harm and even bullying.
It is currently live in the US but is set to be rolled out across the world very soon.
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