In recent years, social media platforms such as TikTok have become an increasingly popular way to share perspectives on a variety of topics, including mental health challenges like ADHD, Autism Spectrum, and Borderline Personality Disorder. Even though social media platforms can raise awareness, increase conversation, and reduce stigma around mental health conditions, they are not exactly the most reliable or comprehensive sources of factual information. Despite the high popularity of social media platforms as a means of disseminating information, there are several reasons why they should not be relied upon as a diagnostic tool for understanding your own or others’ mental health picture.
The Dangers of Misinformation
Unfortunately, one of the major risks of relying upon social media platforms for mental health information is the prevalence of misinformation or incomplete descriptions that can leave consumers confused and misguided. Some research has estimated that 84% or more of the mental health advice shared on TikTok was inaccurate or misleading. For diagnoses such as ADHD, the statistics were even worse, as estimates of incorrect or misleading information in posts were closer to 100%. That’s a staggering level of untrustworthy information being shared at inconceivable volumes and speed over such platforms. When users take in and/or spread false or misleading posts and view them as fact, there is a real danger of widespread harm. For instance, the risks of misdiagnosing, seeking inappropriate treatments, missing out on appropriate treatments, or promoting deeply flawed understandings of complex mental health topics are profound and, in some cases, could even be destructive. Although social media provides opportunities to disseminate information efficiently and widely, what good does it do if the information is flawed or flat-out wrong?
Another concern is that social media content is often framed in ways designed to go viral or capture attention rather than provide thorough, evidence-based information. Creators may exaggerate certain symptoms or cherry-pick aspects of mental health conditions to make their content more relatable. This not only trivializes the complexity of mental health disorders but also contributes to spreading stereotypes and misconceptions. For instance, many videos on social media perpetuate narrow or incorrect views of what mental health conditions look like or what treatment approaches would be effective. This can prevent individuals from recognizing the nuances of these conditions in themselves or others, potentially perpetuating harm.
The Importance of Responsible Sharing on Social Media about Mental Health
Knowing that social media platforms are effective tools of expression, I don’t fault anyone for sharing whatever they choose to about their mental health journeys on their pages or channels. This could be a productive exercise for the sharer and perhaps also useful to others who read/view the material and resonate. It gets messy when individuals without a sound clinical background speak beyond their scope of knowledge or training in a way that influences others to self-diagnose, treat, or medicate something they might not fully understand. Social media posts can often selectively present information in superficial ways that do not capture the nuance, specificity, or context that can lead to an appropriate appraisal of what is taking place in a person’s health. For example, content that suggests things like a “foolproof way to know if you have ADHD” very likely belongs on the garbage heap, as there is no foolproof way to know this without a thorough clinical assessment by a trained professional. Such a complex process with serious implications can never be simplified enough to be covered in a social media post, video, or meme. The consequences of trusting faulty information from faulty sources could be significant, as someone who mistakes their anxiety symptoms for ADHD could try taking a stimulant medication that is meant to help with ADHD but instead significantly worsens their anxiety because they are treating the wrong problem.
Final Thoughts
These various concerns should influence the role and power we give to social media as a source of information or advice about mental health. While social media can be a starting point for mental health awareness, it should never be a substitute for professional evaluation or advice, nor should it be considered a reliable resource for evidence-based health information. Consulting a licensed mental health professional is always the safer and more effective route for addressing concerns, gaining clarity, and receiving the appropriate treatment for any mental health questions. Use social media for it does well, but don’t grant it undue credibility when informing your health choices.
About the Author
Joey Tadie, PhD, LCP
Dr. Joey Tadie is a talented psychologist with a gift for connecting with people. He is trained in EMDR and psychedelic-assisted therapy. He brings his high-energy, encouraging style to his work with clients dealing with depression, relationship problems, and trauma. He has special expertise in exploring spirituality and religion in therapy.
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