Social platform TikTok has announced measures to support the mental wellbeing of users.
According to TikTok, mental health challenges are on the rise in the world, with adolescents in Sub-Saharan Africa being at a higher risk.
In response, TikTok has reiterated its commitment to investing in mental health initiatives to support its communities.
It insists that early intervention is vital in ensuring wellbeing.
“Unfortunately, mental health literacy is low across the continent, and stigma remains a significant barrier, preventing many from seeking help. Early intervention is vital, yet adolescents and young adults often struggle with mental health issues exacerbated by economic difficulties and limited access to services,” the social platform said.
In a bid to lead the way in ensuring the mental wellbeing of users, it has announced nine in-app solutions including; A support page to assist users who may be feeling isolated.
This in-app feature recognises searches related to suicide and mental health, offering reassurance by reminding users that they are not alone. It also has contact information for self-help hotlines relevant to each user's region.
TikTok has an age limit of 13+ and content is restricted for users below the age of 18, setting boundaries and restrictions to content exposure for younger users.
It also offers tools to promote mindful digital habits through its daily screen time limits and weekly screen time updates, where Users can set a daily cap on their app usage to maintain a healthy balance between online and offline activities.
TikTok’s Screen Time Dashboard provides a detailed breakdown of when and how you use the app to encourage intentional engagement, helping users monitor their online activity and ensuring it doesn’t negatively impact their mental well-being.
It also has a Screen Time Breaks feature that prompts you to take breaks after a set period of continuous use. For younger users aged 13-17, TikTok offers an additional layer of protection through screen time management.
If these users spend over 100 minutes on the app in one day, they will receive a reminder to set a daily screen time limit.
This proactive feature encourages responsible app usage and aims to foster healthier digital habits among teens.
Through its Family Pairing feature, parents can connect their accounts with their teens to monitor screen time, adjust privacy settings, and manage app safety features, ensuring a balanced digital experience for younger users.
TikTok’s Safety Centre provides users with practical tips on how to manage their app usage and support someone who might be facing mental health challenges.
“These resources are available year-round, offering insights that promote a healthier relationship with digital media.”
To help users maintain healthier sleep habits, TikTok offers a sleep reminder feature, which allows users to set a specific time for the app to mute notifications, reducing night-time distractions and promoting better rest.