Instagram ‘Guides’ Want to Help You Manage Anxiety, Grief
The feature makes it easy to find recommendations, tips, and other content from creators, public figures, and organizations. The initial focus is on content that supports well-being.
Instagram is making it easier to find recommendations, tips, and other content from creators, public figures, organizations, and publishers across the social network. Rolling out now, new “Guides” help users connect with accounts that inspire and inform.
“We know many people are struggling due to the COVID-19 pandemic, so we are first focusing Guides on wellness content,” according to a company announcement. The feature lets anyone find resources from expert organizations and engage with others managing anxiety or grief.
In the updated app, visit participating profiles and tap the open-pamphlet icon (between the grid and tag symbols) to view Guides. Initial partners include international organizations like the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (US), Heads Together (UK), Vita Alere Institute (Brazil), Klicksafe (EU), Headspace (Australia), Sudah Dong (Indonesia), and e-Enfance (France).
“When viewing a Guide, you can see posts and videos that the creator has curated, paired with helpful tips and advice,” the Instagram blog said. Heads Together, for example, created guides on kindness, self care, and talking about feelings. Simply browse thumbnails and recaps, or dive deeper into individual content by tapping through to the original post. Like what you see? Share an entire Guide to your story or as a direct message with friends and family. The feature, currently available via specific profiles, is coming soon to the Explore tab.
“We’re continuing to look for new ways to support our community, especially during times of need, so stay tuned for more updates,” the company said. In an attempt to ease the burden of a global health crisis, Instagram has introduced a number of helpful functions, including the ability to browse with friends over video chat, support local businesses, and raise money for charity with live donations.
The social network also recently launched new tools to curb online bullying, and last month, teamed up with Netflix for a five-week live series, “Wanna Talk About It?”, featuring actors and mental health experts discussing questions and challenges facing young people right now.
Originally published at https://www.pcmag.com.
