While social media such as TikTok and Instagram can be a great way for young people to connect it sometimes has material that is distressing. This can include video footage of traumatic deaths and self-harming behaviours as well as interpersonal violence.
The eSafety Commissioner advises that discretion is needed in any communication about incidents with students, parents and staff. In particular it’s important for staff to avoid raising the issue with students who may not have heard or been exposed to this material. Drawing undue attention to the issue may cause unnecessary worry or distress and increase exposure.
If you become aware of students who have viewed any distressing material you should follow your schools procedures for managing and supporting students at risk. If a young person shows signs of distress they should be encouraged to seek help.
Key support agencies:
- Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800. Phone support is there all day, every day. Online support is open from 8am-midnight every day (AEST).
- Suicide Callback Service 1300 659 467. Phone support all day, every day, and follow-up calls.
- eHeadspace 1800 650 890. Open 9am-1am daily (AEST).
- Lifeline 13 11 14. Phone support all day, every day. Online support 7pm-4am daily (AEST).
- Beyondblue 1300 22 4636. Phone support all day, every day. Online support 3pm-midnight every day.
The attached flyer is a resource that can be printed and displayed in schools.
The departments Social Work Incident Support Service (SWISS) responds to critical incidents at all public education and care locations.
You can contact SWISS to help deal with a critical incident by calling them on the duty line 8314 4100.