BY MEHER MASALAWALA
March 9, 2017
“Facebook’s suicide prevention tools are in partnership with organizations like the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline and Crisis Text Line.”
Every 40 seconds death by suicide occurs worldwide, and many suicide attempts are also made. In times when things like depression and suicide are affecting a large number of our population, several companies and organization have assumed responsibility to help troubled individuals.
One of the leading companies taking the initiative is Facebook which continues to create changes and updates to allow its users to get help. Now, more than ever, in response to the recent teen deaths that were broadcasted on Facebook Live.
Adding on to these tools, Facebook has now announced that they are testing Artificial Intelligence to track posts and look for red flags especially because, at times, friends and family members are not able to.
The company has always tried to come up with ways to be accessible globally and integrate functions that go beyond basic social media platforms. In the event of a calamity or terror attack Facebook has a safe check-in feature, and in 2016 it allowed users all over the world to report posts that have self-harm potential.
Facebook’s suicide prevention tools are in partnership with organizations like the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline and Crisis Text Line.
The reported posts are first reviewed by their community operations team who have specialized suicide watch training. Then the site intervenes by offering private support and resources to the person. A troubled individual can even message a hotline through Facebook messenger.
Adding on to these tools, Facebook has now announced that they are testing Artificial Intelligence to track posts and look for red flags especially because, at times, friends and family members are not able to. It is being tested in the US, and with strong research, it can be implemented globally. This is a prime example of how new advancements are helping individuals and shows the potential of AI.
With astounding initiatives by Facebook such as these, Facebook is proving to be a part of the fabric of human condition.
In the recent years, Facebook has evolved into something more than a social media platform. What was once a platform to share statuses and photos, now has algorithmic news viewing and sharing, Facebook Live, and an online marketplace.
Facebook has become a platform that fulfills many purposes, and with new tools that are safeguarding its users, the digital space and social technology are growing in sophistication.
