Instagram rolls out a pop-up to address drug addiction
The social media platform is introducing a feature that will direct users who search for drug-related items or services to treatment and recovery options.
Instagram wants to join the fight against drug addiction in the U.S.
The visual platform announced it would roll out a feature such that users searching relevant hashtags or words would be shown a pop-up message directing them to treatment and recovery resources.
The move comes as social media companies are redoubling efforts to provide meaningful value to users and rebuff criticism that they are bad for society.
Instagram says people are using the platform’s hashtags to find addiction support and communities as well as illegal drugs. So, in response, the company is rolling out a pop-up today that’ll provide users with drug addiction resources if they search certain hashtags, like “opioid.”
The user can then opt to get support resources that Instagram developed with the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence, and the Partnership for Drug Free Kids. There will also be advice for family and friends of people with substance abuse problems.
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