Suicide, Self-Harm, or Violent Content on LessWrong
Online communities like LessWrong are used to share ideas and connect with like-minded individuals. During our time online we may encounter individuals who are discussing thoughts of violence against others, self-harm, or suicide.
LessWrong is not a mental health or support organization. By and large, we (LessWrong administrators, moderators, and users) have no special training related to handling individuals who are actively or potentially violent or suicidal. Mental health experts and suicide prevention specialists recommend referring such individuals to proper professional care immediately.
Responding
Treat All Claims Seriously
Although individuals who discuss committing suicide may not be actively suicidal, some of those people may become actively suicidal. The same goes for claims or threats of violence. Many claims are empty threats or hoaxes; some are made by people who are depressed or angry, but not suicidal or violent. Users of LessWrong are not as a rule properly trained to determine if such a claim or threat is an immediate harm to someone's well being, and should consider the worst and act accordingly. Treat all claims seriously and as an emergency.
Direct the User to the Proper Resources
If you encounter posts or comments on LessWrong where a user is discussing harming themselves or committing suicide please refer them to the #Suicide and Self-Harm Resources below.
If you encounter posts or comments on LessWrong where a user is discussing committing acts of violence against others please contact law enforcement.
Resources
Suicide and Self-Harm
United States
LessWrong users in the United States who are contemplating acts of self-harm or suicide are strongly encouraged to contact:
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (NSPL)
- 1 800 273 Talk (8255)
- suicidepreventionlifeline.org
United Kingdom or Ireland
LessWrong users in the United Kingdom or Ireland who are contemplating acts of self-harm or suicide are strongly encouraged to contact:
- Samaritans
- 08457 90 90 90 (UK)
- 1850 60 90 90 (Republic of Ireland)
- jo@samaritans.org
- samaritans.org
Other Countries
Less Wrong users in other countries who are contemplating acts of self-harm or suicide are strongly encouraged to consult this list entitled “I need to find a suicide hotline for myself or a friend” created by Facebook.
References
- Facebook. 2013. How do I help someone who's posted suicidal content on Facebook? (accessed Feb. 14, 2013).
- Twitter. 2013. Suicidal and self-harm content on Twitter. (accessed Feb. 14, 2013).
- Wikipedia. 2013. Responding to threats of harm. Last modified Jan. 6, 2013. (accessed Feb. 14, 2013).