Key Sentence:
- TikTok announced several features designed to help users struggling with mental health issues and suicidal thoughts.
- Features include health guidance and support for people struggling with eating disorders.
A search intervention feature also directs users to support resources when they search for terms such as “suicide. The move comes as rival platform Instagram gains new control over its impact on user well-being. In a statement, TikTok said, “We care deeply about our community, and we are always looking for new ways to improve its well-being.
“So we’re taking an extra step to make it easier for people to find resources on TikTok when they need them.”
New resources that the company says will be used globally in the coming months include expanded guidance on eating disorders. And traits that direct users to local support, such as inline crisis text when they search for terms like suicide. TikTok, like its rival social media platforms, is under intense scrutiny for its impact on the mental health of its users, especially teenagers.
A report by the Institute for Educational Policy and the Prince’s Trust earlier this year found. That teens’ mental health is compromised by excessive use of social media. It was associated with negative well-being and self-esteem regardless of the mental state of the youth. With more girls experiencing depression and hopelessness, the study said.
According to the report, the company has been researching the app’s effects on the mental health of younger users for at least two years.
However, the document also states that research has repeatedly been harmful to many consumers, especially teenage girls.
In a detailed statement, Instagram confirmed the study by the Wall Street Journal but said the story “focused on a limited number of results. And threw them in a negative direction.” The social media company also stated that they supported the survey and that. It demonstrates our commitment to understanding the complex and challenging issues young people face. And informing about all of our work to help those who have these issues.