Self-harm support forum doing some good
24 October 2011
Moderated internet forums for young people who self-harm are worthwhile because they represent the only help many of these teenagers and young people will get, an expert says.
A study of SharpTalk, a UK experimental online discussion forum set up as a support group for people aged 16–25 who have self-harmed, has demonstrated benefits.
Moderators of SharpTalk questioned 47 users of the forum after 10 weeks and found a strong consensus that it was easier to talk to an online stranger about self-harm than to family or friends (The Psychiatrist 2011; 35: 364-8; 368-70).
The forum users said they learned more about mental health issues from online discussion forums than from information websites, but they did not think online therapy could replace face-to-face therapy.
Mental health resources
If you or someone you know is depressed and having suicidal thoughts, see your doctor, seek help from a health support group, such as those featured below, or phone one of the national helplines in the box below.
| National Helplines | |
|---|---|
| If you or someone you know is depressed and/or having suicidal thoughts, see your doctor, or phone one of these helplines. | |
| Lifeline (24 hours) | 13 11 14 |
| Kids Helpline (under 18 years of age) | 1800 55 1800 |
| Just Ask - rural mental health information | 1300 13 11 14 |
| Mensline Australia (24 hours) | 1300 78 99 78 |
| SANE Helpline - mental illness information, support and referral | 1800 18 SANE (7263) |
Mental health and depression resources for teenagers
For more general, non-urgent information and resources for teenagers and young people on mental health and depression, see the websites in this table.
| Depression/mental health resources for teenagers and young people | |
|---|---|
| headspace | Australia's National Youth Mental Health Foundation. Headspace has centres around Australia where young people can participate in activities and get support and information. |
| youth beyondblue | Beyondblue's website for young people and their families to help deal with depression. |
| Reach Out Australia | Information, stories, forums and blogs to help understanding of mental health issues and to connect young people with mental health issues. |
| Itsallright.org | SANE Australia's website for young people with relatives and friends with a mental illness. Comprises information, factsheets, podcasts and a helpline. |
| Embrace the Future | Project of the Mental Health Foundation of Australia to educate people under 24 to develop the skills which promote resilience and positive mental health. |
Last Reviewed: 28 October 2011
- 1. Jones R, Sharkey S, Ford T, et al. Online discussion forums for young people who self-harm: user views. Psychiatrist 2011; 35: 364-8. doi:10.1192/pb.bp.110.033449. http://pb.rcpsych.org/content/35/10/364.abstract (accessed Oct 2011).
2. Powell J. Young people, self-harm and internet forums [editorial]. Psychiatrist 2011; 35: 368-70. doi: 10.1192/pb.bp.111.035675. http://pb.rcpsych.org/content/35/10/368 (accessed Oct 2011).
