In 2022, between 62-67% of teens admitted to using TikTok or Instagram at least once, according to research done by Pew Research Center. This study by Statista found that there were approximately 200,000 searches per month in the United States for “mental health” on TikTok from April of 2022, to March of 2023. Are TikTok and Instagram acting as digital therapists hurting or helping us?
As mental health awareness grows, many people turn to social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram for guidance. Mental health content has become increasingly popular, with creators sharing coping strategies, motivational messages and even therapy-like advice. But is this digital therapy trend truly beneficial, or can it cause more harm than good?
Why TikTok and Instagram have become mental health hubs and digital therapists.
Social media has made mental health information more accessible than ever. TikTok and Instagram allow creators to share bite-sized tips on managing anxiety, depression and other challenges. For anyone struggling with substance use, behavioral issues or mental health concerns these platforms can seem like a lifeline for quick advice and understanding.
The appeal lies in the format. Short videos and visually appealing posts are easy to digest. Many creators share their personal experiences, making the content relatable and less intimidating. With hashtags like #TherapyTok and #MentalHealthAwareness, users can access thousands of posts within seconds.
How social media can help with mental health.
When watched responsibly, TikTok and Instagram can offer positive mental health benefits by:
- Reducing mental health stigma.
- Seeing others openly discussing their own struggles helps us feel not so alone.
- Making the conversations around mental health open and prevalent reduces the shame attached to it.
- Raising awareness and education.
- Listening to posts of which are scientifically backed, posted by licensed therapists, will give tips on coping strategies, emotional regulation, and mindfulness that can be helpful, and quickly; without an appointment.
- Providing community and connection.
- Online communities can provide much-needed emotional support.
- Supportive comments can help users feel validated and understood.
- Offering quick coping strategies due to quick access to digital.
The risks of relying on social media for mental health support.
Despite its benefits, using social media as our digital therapists can also negatively impact mental health if used as a substitute for professional care. Here are some potential downsides:
- Misinformation and lack of credentials. Not all mental health advice on social media comes from licensed professionals. Well-meaning creators may share incorrect or overly simplistic tips that could worsen a person’s condition because they are misinformed.
- Over-diagnosis and self-labeling. Some users may self-diagnose based on mental health content, mistaking normal emotions for serious mental illnesses. Labels like “depression” or “anxiety” are common in videos, but a proper diagnosis requires a professional evaluation.
- Comparison and perfectionism. Social media shows only what the creator wants people to see. This can give the impression that it’s easy to heal on your own, thus setting unrealistic expectations.
- Emotional overwhelm. Consuming mental health content nonstop can lead to the algorithm feeding the viewer more emotional content. This can intensify anxieties or concerns, and feeling emotionally exhausted.
- Social isolation. Relying on online interactions for social connection leads to more and more isolation. And isolation is not good for mental health.
How we can use social media for mental health.
- Follow verified professionals. Look for licensed therapists, psychologists or reputable mental health organizations with credentials displayed in their bios.
- Use content as a supplement, not a replacement. Social media tips can complement and not replace, professional care. If someone is struggling, they should consult a mental health professional.
- Set screen time limits. Limit scrolling time to prevent emotional overload and ensure that time spent on social media is intentional.
- Be critical of content. Encourage others and remind ourselves to question the accuracy of mental health claims and verify information with trusted sources.
- Encourage open conversations. Talk to teens about what they see online, how it makes them feel, and whether they have questions or concerns about the content they’re consuming.
- It’s not hurtful to have digital therapists, wrong information is hurtful. So be aware, and check validity.
Use social media responsibly.
Social media platforms have reshaped the way people engage with mental health topics, offering both opportunities and risks. When used responsibly, these platforms can serve as valuable tools for raising awareness, reducing stigma and providing supportive communities. However, they should never replace professional care.
At Therapeutic Educational Consulting, we guide, support and recommend placement options for treatment centers, nature-based therapy, therapeutic boarding schools and alternative education for adolescents and young adults. We are the real-deal; no digital therapists.
Schedule a no-cost discovery call with Rae Guyer, your therapeutic consultant to discuss options.
© Therapeutic Educational Consulting
Photo credit, Urupong
