Mental health myths go viral on social media: Experts warn of potential risks
It's not fun and content anymore.
More than half of the most popular TikTok videos related to mental health spread misinformation, posing a significant risk to users who are struggling with complex conditions, British experts have warned.
A recent
study conducted by The Guardian
revealed, those seeking instant relief and solutions for issues like trauma, depression, or anxiety may find themselves feeling more distressed after following flawed advice they had gotten from the widely popular social media platform.
What's happening?
The study examined the top 100 videos posted under the hashtag #mentalhealthtips on TikTok, which were then reviewed by psychological professionals for accuracy and potential harm.
Researchers identified 52 videos that provided misleading mental health advice on topics such as trauma, neurodivergence, anxiety, and depression. Some clips offered vague, ineffective advice.
What are the experts saying?
Amber Johnson, a psychologist accredited by the British Psychological Society, told The Guardian, 'TikTok is perpetuating misinformation by implying there are universal tips and truths that may actually worsen a viewer's feelings, making them feel like a failure when these suggestions don't provide an easy cure.'
She added, 'Each video tends to suggest that everyone experiences PTSD in the same way, with similar symptoms that can be adequately explained in a 30-second clip.
'
Dan Poulter, a psychiatrist with the National Health Service, stated, 'This misinformation can mislead impressionable audiences and trivialize the life experiences of individuals living with serious mental illness.' Experts criticized these videos for misusing therapeutic language, relying on personal anecdotes, and making sweeping generalizations that overlook the complexities of various mental health conditions.
The experts cautioned that such dangerous tips could distort public perception of mental illness and urged government officials to implement stronger safeguards against the spread of harmful misinformation. David Okai, a psychological medical researcher at King's College London, mentioned, 'Short, attention-grabbing soundbites can sometimes overshadow the more nuanced realities of qualified therapeutic work.
'
What does TikTok say about it?
In response to these findings, TikTok defended its platform, emphasizing that it provides a space for millions to express themselves and share their 'authentic' mental health journeys. A spokesperson for the platform stated, 'There are clear limitations to the methodology of this study, which opposes free expression and implies that people should not be allowed to share their own stories. We actively collaborate with health experts from the World Health Organization and the NHS to promote reliable information and remove 98% of harmful misinformation before it is reported to us.
'
While TikTok can offer insights and connect individuals seeking mental health information, it's generally not advisable to rely on it for professional advice, especially regarding mental health. It's crucial to approach TikTok mental health content with a critical eye and consult with qualified professionals for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
The popular app is currently facing several lawsuits in the US, accusing it of harming children's mental health through addictive features and dangerous content, which have contributed to rising rates of depression and anxiety.
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