Mental Health Charity Warns of Serious Psychological Impact from Online Threats and Hate Speech
Mental health charity warns online threats cause lasting psychological damage as cyberbullying crimes double in a decade across Ireland.
Turn2Me, Ireland's national mental health charity, has spoken out against the serious psychological impact of online threats and harassment, warning that such behaviour can cause lasting damage to victims' mental health.
The charity's statement comes amid growing concerns about online abuse targeting public figures and members of the public across Ireland, highlighting the urgent need for greater awareness of the mental health consequences of cyberbullying.
Fiona O'Malley, CEO of Turn2Me, said:
"What the Tánaiste Simon Harris has had to endure is unacceptable. An online threat is not just a few words on a screen - it can cause deep, lasting psychological distress."
The charity emphasises that online harassment often leaves victims feeling unsafe, powerless, and overwhelmed, with potentially severe consequences for their wellbeing.
O'Malley continued:
"People who experience this type of harassment often describe feeling unsafe, powerless, and overwhelmed. We need to remind ourselves that behind every screen is a human being with emotions, and the words we post can have real consequences for their mental health."
Under Irish law, threats to kill or cause serious harm carry significant penalties, with convictions potentially resulting in up to ten years imprisonment under Section 5 of the Non-Fatal Offences Against the Person Act 1997. This is further reinforced by Section 46 of the Online Safety and Media Regulation Act 2022.
The charity expressed particular concern about threats extending to family members, noting this compounds the psychological impact on victims.
O'Malley said:
"This is exacerbated if it's in the form of a threat and further exacerbated if the threat is extended to their family. We are urging people to pause and think before posting. Even one negative or threatening comment can have a long-lasting impact."
Turn2Me called for people to channel political frustrations through democratic processes rather than online harassment.
"It is worrying to see the rise in threats of violence online in Ireland, the UK, the EU and in America. Violence and the threat of violence have no place in civilised society. If you are frustrated with politicians, bring that frustration to the ballot box and cast your vote," O'Malley said.
She emphasised that while freedom of expression is a fundamental right, it does not extend to threatening behaviour or inciting violence.
The charity has outlined practical steps for anyone experiencing online threats, including blocking and reporting abusive accounts immediately, limiting social media exposure when feeling overwhelmed, and seeking support from trusted contacts.
Turn2Me strongly advises anyone receiving physical threats to report them to An Garda Síochána without delay.
For those experiencing distress from online harassment, professional support is available. The charity provides up to six free counselling sessions, support groups, and mental health resources through their website.
O'Malley concluded:
"While we have the right to freedom of expression, it is not an unlimited right. This does not include the right to threaten or the right to incite violence."
