Zayn's departure has resulted in a shocking hastag "#cut4zayn' trending online, with young fans uploading horrifying photos of their mutilated arms.
Images of bloodied limbs and blood soaked tissues have been splashed across social media sites since Zayn's departure from the band yesterday, with fans tweeting: "The faster you cut your wrists, the faster Zayn comes back. Do it please."
Not all fans agree with the shocking reaction, with many hoping to discourage fellow fans from carrying out the frightening act, saying: "Self-harm is no joke. Its a serious issue that many struggle with and should not be mocked or abused."
Pleading with teens to think before they act, another fan wrote: "Please don't #cut4zayn. He don't want to see us like this. Be smart fans!"
22-year-old Zayn announced his decision to quit the world's biggest boy band yesterday, saying: "My life with One Direction has been more than I could ever have imagined. But, after five years, I feel like it is now the right time for me to leave the band. I'd like to apologise to the fans if I've let anyone down, but I have to do what feels right in my heart."
We hope fans and followers get the help and support they need as they deal with the news.
