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Responding to Distress Online

This page provides information about what to do when someone is posting concerning content online.

Some people may use social media to address their thoughts of suicide, whether it is to seek help and support, or to talk about their distress. It is important to recognize that all forms of help seeking are valid and should be taken seriously.

So, if you see content on social media that indicates someone may be having thoughts of suicide, what should you do?

The Association Québécoise de prevention du suicide has created a guide titled “Taking action on social media to prevent suicide”, that you can view here. The guide suggests the following tips for responding to distress online. Remember that these are general suggestions and may not apply in every situation.

  • Let the person know that you’re there for them.
    • Try to chat with them to learn more about what they are posting. Typically, it is best to reach out through a private message.
  • Listen with openness and without judgement.
    • Listen to what they have to say, and try to understand the situation. Remember though, to also stay within your own limits for what you can handle.
  • Encourage the person to ask for help.
    • You can let the person know that you’re concerned about them and want to offer ways to get help. Try to provide information for suicide prevention services that are open 24/7.
  • Report alarming content.
    • Whether you know the person or not, it is a good idea to report alarming content to the platform involved.
  • Contact emergency services as needed.
    • If you think the person is in immediate danger, call 911, even if you don’t know where the person lives. Try to stay connected with the person until emergency services can contact them.
  • Follow-up with the person.
    • Ask the person if they want to stay in touch with you. Remind them that they’re not alone, and that there are people they can talk to.
  • Find support for yourself.
    • Helping someone through a crisis can be quite a challenge. It is important to get support, and to take time to self-care after providing assistance.

Additional Resources

#ChatSafe for parents and carers: supporting young people to communicate safely online about self-harm and suicide – Mental Health Commission of Canada

Developed in partnership with Orygen’s world-class research team, #ChatSafe for parents and carers is a tool to help adults feel more confident and better equipped to support their young person to communicate safely online about self-harm and suicide.

#ChatSafe: A young person’s guide to communicating safely online about self-harm and suicide – Mental Health Commission of Canada

Developed in partnership with Orygen‘s world-class research team and young people, the #ChatSafe guidelines address the critical need for open dialogue while navigating sensitive topics and aim to reduce stigma, fear, and misinformation surrounding self-harm and suicide discussions online.