Suicidal ideation expressed in online video diaries: New form of sharing intention to die

Abstract

Introduction

Suicide risk is increasing among all population groups, and no effective prevention method has been established due to high variability of risk factors.

Objectives

To (1) determine risk factors in people, who video-streamed unsuccessful suicide attempt, and (2) assess whether screening video blog websites is an effective suicide prevention.

Methods

Participants (n = 24, 14 M and 10F, age range = 19 to 53) with past history of suicidal attempts were recruited online to participate in encrypted video qualitative interview. Three scales assessed suicidal tendencies and Internet addiction: Columbia–suicide severity rating (C-SSRS), suicide assessment five-step evaluation and triage (SAFE-T), validated Internet addiction scale of own design. Reported data are mixed quantitative and qualitative measures.

Results

Participants were stratified into two age categories (students vs. working professionals), and all were determined to be addicted to Internet. Each group engaged in minimum 15 suicides ideation-related postings, prior to attempting suicide. Young participants typically posted impulsive, quick massages capturing distress caused by peers and family conflicts; seeking short-time recognition was evidenced by eliciting more “likes” and “comments” for each post. Working professionals posted less, but each video was lengthier and messages were emotional, usually ending in tearful summary of life events leading up to suicidal thoughts. While students expressed anger with “the system” as motivation to die, working professionals had financial problems and trouble forming long-lasting friendships.

Conclusion

People of all age groups increasingly document intention to die via blog video posts. These messages can be captured by prevention professionals who can reach out to troubled students and working adults.

Disclosure of interest

The author has not supplied his/her declaration of competing interest.