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1 min read
The rise of influencers sharing mental health content on social media has helped break down stigmas, but it also raises risks associated with misinformation and the lack of professional guidance. Given the ease of virality on platforms like TikTok, experts warn about the impact of incorrect advice and the need to seek support from certified professionals for proper care.
The demand for mental health content on social media has given rise to a new genre of influencers: the mental health influencer. These are users whose videos share information about mental health and tips for mental well-being, thus gaining thousands of followers. On TikTok alone, posts with the hashtag “#mentalhealth” exceed 15 million.
The dissemination of this content has not only helped break down stigmas and prejudices but has also contributed to people reaching out to health professionals for evaluations and, depending on the results, receiving appropriate treatment. However, it is important to keep in mind the disadvantages, such as self-diagnosis and discouraging people from seeking specialized help.
Traditional media tend to have safeguards to prevent and correct false claims, but when it comes to social media, these platforms have certain characteristics that promote the viral spread of content with little oversight. The ease and speed of making a post, along with the simplicity of content sharing, allow users to distribute information smoothly to large audiences, so misinformation can only be controlled after it has been posted. The "filter bubble," shaped by algorithms, divides virtual communities into groups that share the same ideological framework, which hinders the dissemination of objective corrections and fruitful discussions with other viewpoints.
Researchers found that the total time spent playing was not significantly associated with anxiety or stress levels."
It is in this aspect that particular care must be taken, as users who do not have the relevant credentials or necessary knowledge make posts with incorrect information with the intention of increasing their visibility on platforms or selling their products with the promise of a solution. For instance, a study found that at least 50% of the 100 most popular TikTok videos addressing Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) contained incorrect information (Yeung et al., 2022).
It is also true that there are users who are health professionals and have the experience to advise and educate about mental health. However, there is also a risk that applies to other content creators as well, which is the sense of complacency after consuming the content.
A responsible approach to this type of content is necessary. It is not enough to just verify the information through the internet. When there is genuine doubt about one's mental health or that of a loved one, it is essential to schedule an appointment with certified and experienced professionals. This not only helps to clarify doubts but also opens a path for personal development and fulfillment.