Yik Yak: Let’s Talk about Depression, Anxiety, and Suicide

College years are a big transition for everybody, so anxiety and depression are not uncommon among undergraduates. Yik Yak is an app that’s popular among college kids and it is well known for being used to anonymously spread gossip and hateful speech, as well as a means to meet up with other Yik Yak users for casual “hookups”. But recently, it has been across on college campuses as suicide intervention. People who post suicidal thoughts are met with extremely supportive responses from strangers who are reaching out to help the individual. According to this NPR article, “Yik Yak has become an unlikely safe space for people with suicidal thoughts — a place where, students say, responses are consistently helpful, not mean.”

Are you or someone you know struggling with depression, anxiety, and/or suicidal thoughts? Visit these websites to get helpful information and resources.

http://www.adaa.org/understanding-anxiety/suicide

https://www.mentalhelp.net/articles/suicide/

http://www.helpguide.org/articles/suicide-prevention/suicide-help-dealing-with-your-suicidal-thoughts-and-feelings.htm

http://www.calmclinic.com/anxiety/symptoms/suicidal-mindset

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Have you heard about apps being used for good? Let us know in the comments!