Article

Responding to suicidal posts online can save a life

If you saw a social media post that suggested someone might be thinking about suicide or self-harm, would you know what to do? What if it was posted by a friend, or even by someone you don’t know at all?

Social media is part of everyday life. While most content is harmless, people often share personal struggles online. Sometimes, posts can signal that someone is not coping, even if they haven’t said so directly.

You don’t have to know someone personally to help. All major social media platforms have systems in place to respond safely to posts that suggest suicidal thoughts.

What to do in 30 seconds

See a post that worries you?

• Pause and assess: does it suggest suicidal thoughts or distress?
• Take action
• If you know the person: reach out privately, safely, and supportively
• If you don’t know them: use the platform’s reporting tools
• Follow up: check your own feelings; supporting others can be stressful.

Even a couple of minutes spent reporting a concerning post could help save a life.

What to look for

Social media reflects the full range of human emotions. Alongside positive moments, posts may also show despair, loneliness, or hopelessness.

Warning signs

Warning signs online can be direct, like:

• "I don't want to live"
• "I've nothing to live for"
• "Everyone would be better off without me"

They can also be indirect, like:

• Posts that are out of character
• Withdrawing from usual activity
• References to agitation, distress or lack of sleep

These signs, whether direct or indirect, should always be taken seriously.

When should you take action?

It can be difficult to tell the difference between someone having a bad day and someone at risk of suicide. Tone, sarcasm, or irony can be hard to judge online, especially if you don’t know the person well.

If you know the person, you may be able to reach out offline or privately online. Opening a supportive, non-judgemental conversation can make a real difference. If you're concerned about suicide, visit our guide on how to safely have this conversation and how to help someone access support here. 

If you don’t know the person, you might feel unsure about contacting them directly. In these situations, reporting the post using the platform's reporting tools is the most appropriate and effective response.

Use the platform’s reporting tools

All major social media platforms allow you to report posts that suggest suicidal behaviour. When a report is made:

• It is reviewed by trained professionals
• The platform may check in with the person
• Support options and crisis resources can be shared
• In some cases, local emergency services may be alerted

Reporting a post is quick, confidential, and can genuinely save a life.

Reporting suicidal content on major platforms

• X (formerly Twitter): use the suicide and self-harm reporting form
• Facebook: report a post. 
• Instagram: report self-injury posts 
• TikTok: Report videos referencing self-harm
• Snapchat: Snapchat Support Centre.
• YouTube Support click three dots below right corner of video.  Select “Report” then “Harmful dangerous acts”. 

For other platforms, search “[platform name] report suicide or self‑harm content” to find the latest reporting instructions.

If you're worried about someone you know

If you’re concerned that a friend, family member or colleague may be suicidal, visit our Give Help for Suicide page for practical guidance on what to say, how to listen, and when to involve professional support.  

Useful links:

• Warning Signs of Suicide
• What to do if you’re concerned for someone
• Do you feel suicidal?
• Understanding Self-Harm
• Crisis Helplines & Specialist Support Services