The Use and Perceptions of Social Media of Young People who have Self-harmed

Background: Research suggests that young people who self-harm spend more time on social media than those who do not self-harm. Social media has been considered a double-edged sword; on the one hand providing support, but on the other posing risks such as self-harm being ‘normalised’. To further our understanding, it is essential that up-to-date research considers the voice of those who self-harm and use these platforms. Aim: This study aimed to explore the use and perceptions of social media in relation to self-harm from the perspectives of young people who have self-harmed. Method: 15 participants (aged 18-29 years) were recruited via social media. Semi-structured telephone interviews were conducted and analysed by Thematic Analysis. Results: Four themes were identified: ‘Offline/Online Relationships’, ‘Regulating Feelings’, ‘In Group’, and ‘Control’. Participants were drawn to social media, due to unhelpful responses they received offline when discussing self-harm. Being online offered a space to feel accepted, not alone and to regulate emotions. However, social media could form part of the self-harm process and could perpetuate self-harm. There were different demands, pressures and responsibilities with being online, such as self-harm comparisons and encouragement. Participants discussed the internal and external controls in place to protect them from these. The external censoring of social media content was considered silencing and shaming - leaving participants to again feel misunderstood. Participants considered the control and choice they have about engaging with content or not and about keeping their offline/online worlds separate. Discussion: This study highlighted the need for greater collaboration between young people who self-harm, professionals and social media. This could create opportunities for open discussions around self-harm and for the creation of accessible, safe and helpful practices to be fostered to support young people who access self-harm content online.