Facebook launches new suicide alert

Facebook has rolled out a new system to try and identify and help users having suicidal thoughts.

It allows concerned friends to report content for review, reports the Daily Mail.

After reviewing a report and confirming that it may indicate suicidal feelings in a user, Facebook will send that user notifications stating that a friend has attempted to help and offering access to suicide prevention resources.

The tools build on a reporting feature implemented in 2011, which passed details to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline in the US, and the Samaritans in the UK. 

“Keeping you safe is our most important responsibility on Facebook,” said Rob Boyle of Facebook.

"Today, at our fifth Compassion Research Day, we announced updated tools that provide more resources, advice and support to people who may be struggling with suicidal thoughts and their concerned friends and family members."

The firm said it had worked with mental health organizations Forefront, Now Matters Now, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, Save.org and others on the updates, and consulted with people who had lived experience with self-injury or suicide.

“One of the first things these organizations discussed with us was how much connecting with people who care can help those in distress.

“If someone on Facebook sees a direct threat of suicide, we ask that they contact their local emergency services immediately.

“We also ask them to report any troubling content to us.”

Facebook has set up teams working around the world, 24/7, who review any report that comes in.

They prioritize the most serious reports, like self-injury, and send help and resources to those in distress.