Facebook Finally Addresses Live Streaming Of Suicides Via FB-Live

Facebook Inc FB has taken incremental measures to prevent suicides after some of its users streamed live suicides and killings through its Facebook Live. These incidences have increased in recent times, as anyone possessing a smartphone can become a live broadcaster of news, with these gruesome events going viral on the social media and then finding their way into the traditional media.

Integrated into Facebook Live, Messenger

Through a blog post on Wednesday, Facebook said it is updating the tools and resources that could be used both by people contemplating suicide and the concerned friends and family members. The company now provides:

• Integrated suicide prevention tools to help people in real time on Facebook Live.
• Live chat support from crisis support organizations through Messenger.
• Streamlined reporting for suicide, assisted by artificial intelligence.

Facebook said its suicide prevention tool will now be integrated into Facebook Live. A user watching the live video of a suicide can reach out to the person directly or report it to Facebook, with the user being provided with resources to assist him in helping his friend.

At the same time, the person sharing a live video will be provided a set of tools on their screen. They can reach out to their friends, contact a helpline or see tips.

Related Link: Feeling Suicidal? There's a Facebook App for That, Too

Working With Partners

Facebook Live users will now have the option to message in real time directly from the organization's Page or through its suicide prevention tools. This feature was already available in Messenger. The company said the participating organizations included Crisis Text Line, the National Eating Disorder Association and the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.

The company also announced the launch of a video campaign with partner organizations to increase awareness about how a friend in need can be helped.

Existing Provisions In FB Platform

Facebook already has provisions for users to reach out to someone who posts something that causes concerns about their wellbeing. The suicide prevention tools the company has on its namesake platform are over a decade old and developed in collaboration with mental health organizations such as Save.org, National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, Forefront and Crisis Text Line. What more, the tools also incorporate inputs from people who have in the past thought about or attempted suicide.

Facebook also said it has teams working worldwide 24/7, reviewing reports coming in and prioritizing the most serious reports such as suicide. As a means of supporting those who have expressed suicidal thoughts, Facebook provides support by suggesting them to talk to a friend or contact a help line. The support also includes providing pre-populated text to make it easier for the person to start a conversation.

Suicide Prevention, Awareness And Support

• Need Help Now? Call 911 or 1-800-784-2433.
• Text Telephone: 1-800-799-4889.
• LGBT Youth: 1-866-4-U-TREVOR.
• Military Vets: 1-800-273-TALK *1.
• En Español: 1-800-273-TALK *2.