Forget filters, 'likes' and Instagram Stories for a second.

Ask yourself, what do you use Instagram for?

For most of us, the social network is a way of capturing the beauty of the world around us in an instant, sharing our adventures and most memorable life moments to friends, family and the odd random follower.

It's also a way of telling the world how we feel – whether it's the elation at taking a trip to Australia to see a best friend or the pride at a family member finishing a marathon. But, it's also a way of informing the world that actually, everything isn't okay. That, in fact, you need help.

Fortunately, Instagram has recognised how it can support users who might be using the social platform as a cry for help by launching a new feature that enables friends and followers to anonymously report posts about self-harm.

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When a post triggers concern or an indication that someone might be putting themselves in danger, a message will appear on the app to say: '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.'

The app will then offer suggestions to help the person (which you can access via the app), whether that's calling a friend, using the number of a helpline or providing information about receiving mental health support.

Users who also use the hashtag '#selfharm' in the search box will also be directed to this sight (most hashtags of this genre are banned on the app).

With the guidance of the National Eating Disorders Association and the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, Instagram has created the message so that its wording is appropriate for those in need.

Instagram COO Marne Levine told Seventeen magazine: 'These tools are designed to let you know that you are surrounded by a community that cares about you, at a moment when you might most need that reminder.'

Technology really is wonderful sometimes.

Headshot of Katie O'Malley
Katie O'Malley
Site Director

Katie O'Malley is the Site Director on ELLE UK. On a daily basis you’ll find Katie managing all digital workflow, editing site, video and newsletter content, liaising with commercial and sales teams on new partnerships and deals (eg Nike, Tiffany & Co., Cartier etc), implementing new digital strategies and compiling in-depth data traffic, SEO and ecomm reports. In addition to appearing on the radio and on TV, as well as interviewing everyone from Oprah Winfrey to Rishi Sunak PM, Katie enjoys writing about lifestyle, culture, wellness, fitness, fashion, and more.