Instagram brings Stories to Explore tab

Instagram is all set to make Stories more accessible by bringing it in the Explore tab. Additionally, the platform will be launching a Suicide Prevention tool.

Instagram Stories now on Explore tab

Instagram Stories is now coming to the Explore section, right on the top of it no less, where you can see Stories of people who have set their accounts as Public. If you have privacy settings turned on, you need not worry, your Stories will not be broadcast to the general Instagram population.

Now you can easily find and follow newer content and accounts from amongst the 100 million people that use Instagram Stories, tailored to your preferences.

The one persistent obstacle plaguing Snapchat users has been how to find new and exciting people to follow, as interacting with the same people day after day can get monotonous. Stumbling upon new accounts is a tad convoluted on Snapchat as it required knowing the other person’s account name, which they later simplified but it is nowhere near Instagram’s comprehensive Explore section.

Snapchat and Facebook owned Instagram have been at loggerheads since as long as one can remember, and ever since Instagram Stories launched, the battle for daily engagement and for the loyalty of the younger demographic only intensified.

Suicide Prevention Tools 

Additionally, Instagram launched a suicide prevention tool wherein if you feel someone needs assistance in such matters, which you may see reflecting in their posts such as suicidal tendencies or self harm, you can anonymously report it to Instagram’s suicide prevention support.

Image : Engadget

The support tools will contact the person you feel is going through a difficult time and will offer assistance and required guidance, hopefully preventing someone from taking drastic steps.

A major chunk of Instagram users are from the younger demographic, and social media is not always a welcoming and supportive territory. Not receiving the attention one thinks they deserve in the form of likes or followers can prove to be a catalyst for self esteem which often results in self destructive behaviour.

Instagram is working with experts from organizations such as the U.S. National Eating Disorders Association and the The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline to make the language and approach right to be as supportive and friendly as possible.

If you report someone for help, they will receive an option to talk to a friend, contact a helpline or receive tips and instructions depending on the user’s location.

Instagram COO Marne Levine told Seventeen, "We listen to mental health experts when they tell us that outreach from a loved one can make a real difference for those who may be in distress. At the same time, we understand friends and family often want to offer support but don't know how best to reach out,"

"These tools are designed to let you know that you are surrounded by a community that cares about you, at a moment when you might most need that reminder." she adds.

This is Instagram’s second attempt at making their platform friendlier to use, as they previously introduced a bully and abuse prevention feature earlier this year.

It will go a long way helping people get the support they need and it is an admirable move from Instagram.