Right now, when Twitter users in Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa search for terms associated with suicide or self-harm on the app, the top search result will be a prompt dissuading them from self-harm and instead offers them help.
The prompt includes contact details of local non-profit organizations that provide critical mental health resources to people in need: In Kenya that is Amref Health Africa, The South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) in South Africa, and Mentally Aware Nigeria Initiative (MANI) in Nigeria.
“The open Twitter community can be an important source of real-time support for anyone struggling with thoughts of self-harm or suicide. Addressing mental health requires collaboration between all stakeholders – public, private, and not-for-profit. We’re pleased to partner with SADAG, MANI, and Amref Health Africa to encourage people in need to reach out for help, and are grateful for their collaboration and support,” said Emmanuel Lubanzadio, Head of Public Policy for Sub-Saharan Africa, Twitter in a joint statement.
Twitter has also released a reporting form for people threatening suicide or self-harm
A specialized team will review these reports and will be in direct contact to let the individual know someone who cares about them identified they might be at risk.
