Action Alerts /Props to CNN for reporting Google, Facebook suicide prevention
The internet has changed the way we research information, do business networking and discover the next big thing. Mental health may be next on the horizon. According to the CNN.com tech article "Facebook, Google refer suicidal people to help lines" the mega sites are doing their part to help suicidal users. Mark Milian reports Google and Facebook have set up systems that alert their web monitors when users are doing searches for suicide on Google or posting suicide messages on Facebook pages. The users are then directed to resources for help.
Milian writes, “Facebook investigates each report and may send a suicidal person an e-mail offering phone numbers for suicide hot lines…Google added a feature to its U.S. search engine in April 2010 that displays a picture of a red telephone and the phone number for the lifeline when people are searching for suicide-related topics.“
Facebook has been partners with the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline for some time. The two groups are taking their joint efforts to another level by providing users online chats with suicide prevention specialists. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is funded by SAMHSA.
We appreciate CNN’s Mark Milian for reporting ways in which companies are utilizing technology to help others save lives.
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Mark Milian
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Send a message to CNN reporter Mark Milian at http://www.cnn.com/feedback/show/?s=cnntech
Dear Mr. Milian,
With so many people unemployed, not having access to mental health services and other factors, we know suicide is a serious issue in our society. That is why I thank you for your article “Facebook, Google refer suicidal people to help lines.” Your article provides interesting and important information for web users. This story is an example of ways new media can do their part in helping those who suffer from a mental health challenge. I appreciate that you covered this story. Acts like yours, Facebook and Google make a difference. I hope to see more positive stories from you that interweave mental health and technology.Thank you.
