BackgroundYoung migrants encounter heightened challenges as the intersection of their youth and migrant identities magnifies the influence of risk factors for suicide.Social media offers a platform for young migrants to express emotions, seek support and connect with others, often anonymously.However, how they communicate about self-harm and suicide online remains underexplored. MethodsThis qualitative study involved 17 online interviews with young migrants aged 15-25 years.Transcribed data were coded and thematically explored using Braun and Clarke's reflexive thematic analysis methodology. ResultsFour key themes were identified: ( 1) Exposed and Isolated: The Emotional Toll of Viewing Self-Harm and Suicide-Related Content on Young Migrants; (2) Connected But At-Risk: The Dual Role of Social Media in Migrant Belonging; (3) Digital Belonging Across Borders: Benefits and Strains of Staying Connected; and (4) Helpful and Harmful: The Dual Nature of Support on Social Media. ConclusionsSocial media has a complex impact on young migrants, offering both protective and harmful effects.Exposure to self-harm and suicide content is often unintentional and distressing, and racist or discriminatory material can intensify feelings of isolation and disconnection.However, social media also enables young migrants to build connections, understand cultural norms, and stay linked to their home country -fostering belonging and resilience.It offers an accessible, anonymous space for support, though poor-quality advice and stigma may discourage some from seeking help.Understanding how young migrants engage with social media around self-harm and suicide can inform more effective, culturally responsive mental health interventions.
Basu et al. (Mon,) studied this question.
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