Delivering Support Resources to Students in Distress: Release of “SOS Filter” Source Code – A Browser Extension for Student Suicide Prevention

(Tokyo, Japan – March 25, 2025) – OVA, a non-profit organization dedicated to youth suicide prevention, has announced the release of the source code for SOS Filter, a browser extension designed to support suicide prevention efforts among students.

The source code is now available via a private GitHub repository for support organizations and private companies, both in Japan and internationally. For access, please register here.
https://forms.gle/VhSHcfFkRpGKrDD66

What is SOS Filter?

SOS Filter is a browser extension designed for student learning devices distributed in schools. When a student searches for terms related to severe distress, the extension proactively delivers support resources, including access to crisis helplines and self-care information.

Relevant information pop-ups will appear based on students’ search terms.

The extension covers approximately 5,000 keywords across six key categories:

• Suicidal thoughts
• School-related issues (e.g., bullying)
• Family-related issues (e.g., abuse)
• Sexual violence
• Self-harm
• Mental health challenges

SOS Filter is compatible with Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge, two of the most widely used browsers in educational settings.

Key Features of SOS Filter:

Connecting students to specialized support services – Providing links to relevant helplines and consultation resources.
Helping students recognize emotional distress and practice self-care – Offering tips for managing stress and coping with difficult emotions.
Encouraging students to seek help – Providing guidance on how to reach out to trusted adults or professional support services.

SOS Filter is free of charge. Unlike conventional content filtering services, SOS Filter prioritizes student privacy and safety. It does not track individual student search activity, nor does it notify teachers or schools automatically.

Why Release the Source Code?

Since its launch in July 2024, SOS Filter has been installed on approximately 140,000 student devices. However, with over 12 million students across Japan, the need for broader implementation remains critical.

Despite an overall decline in national suicide rates, student suicides reached a record high in 2024. While the Japanese government has emphasized the importance of utilizing digital tools for suicide prevention, comprehensive implementation is still in progress.

By releasing the SOS Filter source code, we aim to empower organizations worldwide to develop customized versions of the tool, incorporating local support contacts and culturally relevant resources. This adaptability is essential for ensuring that students in different regions receive appropriate and effective support.

How to Apply

Organizations interested in accessing the SOS Filter source code can apply via the following registration link.
https://forms.gle/VhSHcfFkRpGKrDD66

Setup manuals are available in both Japanese and English.

*Please note that the source code is intended for organizations and support groups. At this time, we are unable to provide access for personal use.

About OVA

OVA envisions a society where anyone’s voiceless “help me” is recognized and reached out to with support.

Through search-linked advertisements, OVA identifies at-risk individuals online and directs them to crisis support services. Since 2017, Japan’s national suicide prevention policy has emphasized enhancing digital outreach to young people. Under this framework, OVA collaborates with local governments to provide counseling and suicide prevention initiatives.

For more details on OVA’s initiatives and research, visit: https://ova-japan.org/?page_id=7222