Support for young people viewing violent and distressing online content

eSafety is aware that distressing material is circulating online showing the fatal shooting at Utah Valley University, which occurred last week.

Young people who encounter content like this online may be struggling to come to terms with what they have read and seen. It is normal for them to have questions or feel unsettled, and your support can make a big difference. 

Online spaces should be safe for everyone. If a child sees violent or distressing material, it is important to check in and talk to them about the content they have seen. We also recommend that children use devices in open areas of the home, rather than in their bedroom, so you can be attuned to how they are coping and what they are engaging with online. 

Here are some practical steps Australians can take if they come across this type of material online:   

• Report it to the platform: Most major services have reporting tools for violent and graphic content. Using these tools means harmful material can be flagged and removed quickly. 
• Report it to eSafety: Australians can lodge a complaint via gov.au. 
• Do not share the video: Even if your intent is to raise awareness, reposting graphic material increases the risk of trauma and amplifies harm.

You can find more guidance and information about distressing online content below.