TikTok made me do it: the risks of self-diagnosing using social media
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Date
2025
Authors
Yum, Catherine J.
University of Lethbridge. Faculty of Education
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Lethbridge, Alta. : University of Lethbridge, Faculty of Education
Abstract
In an age where accessing information and personal insights is instantaneous, this project examines the rise of self-diagnosis of mental disorders among social media users. This refers to the idea that information encountered on social media informs an individual’s decision to self-diagnose. Properties of social media such as the ability to rapidly share personal stories, algorithms, and peer interaction may be perpetuating this phenomenon. Additionally, there is growing concern regarding inaccurate information and problematic understandings of mental health concepts. Adolescents appear to be particularly susceptible to this trend based on internal and external factors. Literature on this topic has emerged in recent years, however there is a gap in practice that addresses the risks involved in self-diagnosis using social media. To address this gap, this project suggests recommendations for learning as well as a presentation proposal and slideshow aimed at adolescents based on a comprehensive literature review. Additionally, a presentation proposal for teachers and parents is included. By doing so, social media users may be better equipped to engage in and interact with mental health discourse.
Description
Keywords
social media , social media users , medical self-diagnosis , mental disorders , inaccurate information , self-diagnosis risks , adolescents , mental health