In a significant move to protect users from harmful content, Meta Platforms, Inc. (META), Snap Inc. (SNAP), and ByteDance-owned TikTok have announced a joint initiative to combat the spread of suicide and self-harm content online. The three tech giants have launched a new program named ‘Thrive,’ which aims to prevent the dissemination of graphic content that depicts or encourages self-harm and suicide.
‘Thrive’ will enable these companies to share information about potentially harmful content, allowing them to proactively address the issue. This involves exchanging “signals” to notify each other about such content on their respective platforms. The Mental Health Coalition, a charity organization dedicated to destigmatizing mental health discussions, has partnered with the three companies to develop this initiative.
Meta has already taken steps to make suicide and self-harm content less accessible on its platforms. In a blog post, the company stated that they took action on over 12 million pieces of such content on Facebook and Instagram between April and June of this year. However, Meta emphasizes their commitment to providing a space for users to share their experiences with mental health, suicide, and self-harm, as long as they do not promote or provide graphic descriptions of these issues.
This initiative arrives amidst rising concerns about the safety of social media platforms for young users. Last November, a Meta whistleblower raised concerns about the safety of Instagram for teenagers. In January 2024, the Attorney General of Iowa filed a lawsuit against TikTok, alleging that the platform misleads parents about the extent of inappropriate content accessible to young users.
The increasing focus on digital content’s impact on young minds is reflected in various measures being taken. In June of this year, the Los Angeles Board of Education voted to restrict phone usage among students during the school day. Similarly, in September, YouTube, owned by Alphabet Inc., restricted access to certain health and fitness videos for teenagers to protect them from developing negative self-perceptions.
The collaboration between Meta, Snap, and TikTok through the ‘Thrive’ initiative demonstrates a proactive approach to tackling the challenge of harmful content on social media platforms. This joint effort, supported by the Mental Health Coalition, highlights the growing importance of addressing mental health concerns in the digital age and ensuring the safety and well-being of all users.
