Citation

Bywaters J, Foster K, Scott J. Psychiatr. Danub. 2006; 18(Suppl 1): 97.

Affiliation

The National Institute for Mental Health in England, Room 8E40 Quarry House, Quarry Hilll, LS2 7UE Leeds, England. keith.foster@dh.gsi.gov.uk.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2006, Facultas Universitatis Studiorum Zagrabiensis - Danube Symposion of Psychiatry)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

16964032

Abstract

Over recent months concern has been raised about internet sites that provide information on ways to commit suicide and, in particular, the influence they may have over vulnerable people. The National Institute for Mental Health in England is actively engaged in discussions with officials from other Government Departments and internet service providers to explore what action can be taken to mitigate against internet sites that encourage people to take their own lives. The following actions have been agreed: - raise awareness of the potential dangers of suicide websites/chatrooms being accessed by vulnerable people - exploring ways of ensuring that search engine results give prominence to sites offering help and support to people contemplating suicide. In addition, the Minister for Health (UK) met with the Internet Service Providers Association and Samaritans and it was agreed to work together on ways of supporting vulnerable people who may be accessing these sites. It was also agreed to build on some of the practices that are already been adopted by some larger and more responsible providers and to disseminate this practice internationally.

Language: en