Digital Catharsis or Harmful Exposure? A Thematic Analysis of Self-Directed Violence Reddit Posts

Many feel uncomfortable discussing self-directed violence with individuals in their social circle, often leading to concerned posts on social media. Previous studies address self-harm, suicide, and nonsuicidal self-injury; however, minimal literature combines suicide and nonsuicidal self-injury to explore common themes representing self-directed violence. This study identified themes from suicide and self-harm subreddit communities, with themes common to each subreddit comprising themes of self-directed violence. Using 1,989 Reddit posts from suicide and self-harm communities, we employed an inductive thematic analysis to explore how users discussed self-directed violence within anonymous online communities. Ultimately, the impact of using Reddit for discussion of self-directed violence depends on the individual. We generated six themes, with two from self-harm data (i.e., graphic descriptions of self-harm behavior and continued self-harm to manage emotions), two from suicide data (i.e., support-seeking to replace social connections and triggering moments initiating suicide-related thoughts, plans, and behavior), and two themes embodying self-directed violence (i.e., prevention through creative expression and safety for discussion mainly exists online). Despite attempts to provide help-seeking resources, the use of Reddit for connection and inquiry about coping skills for self-directed violence cessation could increase users’ risk for detrimental mental health impacts from the inclusion of detailed descriptions of self-harm, suicide plans, past attempts, suicide or nonsuicidal self-injury means, and suicide notes left for loved ones. Given the delicate balance of seeking support and increasing exposure to graphic content, it is crucial to discuss the nuances of Reddit exchanges with Reddit users, practitioners, moderators, and developers.