New research from the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience at King’s College London, in partnership with YoungMinds, has examined the image-posting habits on social media of young people who self-harm. The study found that young people temporarily withdraw from posting images on the day they self-harm.

The study shows that young people’s social media use during self-injury episodes includes distress but also wellbeing support and connection. Self-harm is rising and linked to suicide risk. While some online content may reinforce self-harm, social media can also offer peer support and aid recovery.

The research project gave youth advisors a real chance to shape studies with their own experiences, exploring how social media, wellbeing, and self-expression connect in their lives. It amplified their voices and made them feel valued, contributing to better understanding and care.