Instagram is vowing to remove all graphic images of self-harm after the parents of a 14-year-old in the UK said the social media site played a role in her death.
Molly Russell took her own life in 2017. Her family later found out she had been viewing graphic images of self-harm on Instagram.
"[Some posts she looked at] encourages self-harm. It links self-harm to suicide, and I have no doubt that Instagram helped killed my daughter," Molly's father Ian said.
Instagram has now pledged to remove all graphic self-harm photos, and while supportive messages can still be posted on the site, the social media platform says anything related to the topic will now be harder to find.
Netsafe in New Zealand welcome the move, and say it's a timely reminder of the dangers of social media.
Netsafe chief executive Martin Crocker said they've been working with the social media platform to produce a helpful guide for parents, and having open conversations with their children are key.
"Instagram blocking the material is just one of the things that we need to do. Young people can access this material in many other places, so they could be exposed to it despite the best will in the world. Content will slip through," Mr Crocker said.
"We've got to have other controls in place and we've got to do our best to educate young people to manage them."
Where to get help:
Need to Talk? Free call or text 1737 any time to speak to a trained counsellor, for any reason.
Lifeline: 0800 543 354
Suicide Crisis Helpline: 0508 828 865 / 0508 TAUTOKO (24/7)
Depression Helpline: 0800 111 757 (24/7)
Samaritans: 0800 726 666 (24/7)
Youthline: 0800 376 633 (24/7) or free text 234 (8am-12am), or email talk@youthline.co.nz
What's Up: online chat (7pm-10pm) or 0800 WHATSUP / 0800 9428 787 children's helpline (1pm-10pm weekdays, 3pm-10pm weekends)
Kidsline (ages 5-18): 0800 543 754 (24/7)
Rural Support Trust Helpline: 0800 787 254
Healthline: 0800 611 116
Rainbow Youth: (09) 376 4155
Safe to talk National Sexual Harm Helpline - 0800 044 334, www.safetotalk.nz
Victim Support National 24 Hour Helpline 0800 842 846, www.victimsupport.org.nz
Rape Crisis National 24 Hour Helpline 0800 883300
If it is an emergency and you feel like you or someone else is at risk, call 111.
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