The rate of reply and nature of responses to suicide-related posts on Twitter

Abstract

The social media platform Twitter has been used by individuals to communicate suicidal thoughts and intentions. Currently, the nature and rate of reply to this type of Twitter content is unknown. This brief report aimed to understand how Twitter users respond to suicide-related content as compared to non-suicide related content. Using a dataset of suicide and non-suicide related posts, replies, retweets and likes were analysed and compared. The content of the first replies to suicide-related posts were also reviewed. When compared to non-suicide related posts, those that were suicide-related received a significantly greater number of replies, with fewer retweets and likes. The rate of reply to the suicide-related posts was also significantly faster than that of the non-suicide related posts, with the average reply occurring within 1 h. Thematic analysis revealed that 62% of the first replies to suicidal posts were of a potentially helpful nature (e.g. discouraging suicide, caring, or clarifying), while 23% were dismissive or encouraging of the suicide. These findings indicate that Twitter users respond differently to suicidal content. Further research is needed to determine the effects of the replies on suicidal intentions or ideations, and whether this platform can be used to intervene, increase help-seeking, or provide anti-stigma campaigns.