Instagram's new feature is a mental health game-changer

by Allanah Dykes

''Did you know that, according to the World Health Organization, an estimated 350 million people of all ages suffer from depression? Although this means it’s more likely for someone in your inner circle to suffer from depression, most likely they will not speak up in fear of being ridiculed. But now Instagram, one of the biggest social media platforms in the world, has created a new feature to help those dealing with mental illness.

The new feature will allow users to anonymously flag a photo when they think someone needs help. Once the photo is flagged, the person will receive a message that reads “Someone saw one of your posts and thinks you might be going through a difficult time. If you need support, we’d like to help.” After receiving this message, they will receive different options to get help.

In order to create messages that will seem helpful, rather than invasive, Instagram is working with organizations like the National Eating Disorders Association and the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline...''