What educators need to know about students using social media to self diagnose mental health conditions
In an age where social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram dominate the online world, students are increasingly using these apps not just for entertainment but also as a resource for support, community, and even mental health information.
A recent article by CNN Business stated that some teens are turning to social media to self-diagnose various mental health conditions, such as ADHD, depression, autism, and more. In fact, studies show that 55% of students are using social media to self-diagnose. While some might find helpful information and support, this trend is raising concerns among families, therapists, and school counselors.
While social media is a great resource for students to explore new interests, express themselves creatively, and connect with like-minded people, adults should be aware of this trend so that they can remind students that social media does not replace medical professionals and cannot self-diagnose mental health conditions.
The trend of self-diagnosis on social media
Parents and educators have reported instances where their teenagers started identifying with creators discussing mental health diagnoses on social media platforms. Over time, some teens have convinced themselves that they have the same conditions as those they encounter online. Education Week found that 65% of teachers have seen students self-diagnosing themselves with mental health conditions in the classroom. This trend of self-diagnosis can be concerning, as it may lead to mislabeling and misinterpretation of their struggles.
Dr. Larry D. Mitnaul, a child and adolescent psychiatrist, has noticed a significant increase in self-diagnoses among teenagers, with ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, and dissociative identity disorder being the most popular. This phenomenon is partly attributed to the way students use social media to connect with others and find a sense of belonging. While social media allows students to share their struggles and find support – as the recent EdWeek poll found that 72% of educators believe social media helps students be more open about their struggles with mental health – the trend of self-diagnosing can be harmful, as it may restrict their world and lead them to believe they have a condition that they don’t. Or it can lead them to the wrong diagnosis and prevent them from seeking help with a struggle they actually have.
How teachers can help
As educators, we play a crucial role in shaping our students’ understanding of themselves and the world around them. Here are some ways you can encourage positive consumption of online content and support your students’ mental well-being as they navigate social media and technology:
- Educate Students About Reliable Sources: Teach your students how to discern reliable sources of information, especially when it comes to mental health. Encourage them to seek advice from professionals rather than relying solely on social media. Here is a list of reliable resources for mental health help that you can share with your students!
- Promote Critical Thinking: Encourage critical thinking skills by discussing the potential consequences of self-diagnosis and the importance of seeking professional guidance. A recent article by the University of Colorado Denver stated that “Mental health conditions are complex and often require specialized knowledge to be understood, and a self-diagnosis may lead us to overlook or misunderstand important aspects of the mental health experience.”
- Encourage Positive Content: Highlight the value of finding positive influences and uplifting content as they navigate the booming influencer industry.
TSI’s Take
The influence of social media on students’ mental health is undeniable, and the trend of self-diagnosis poses challenges that families, teachers, and mental health professionals must address together. By promoting critical thinking, educating students about reliable sources, and encouraging positive content consumption, teachers can play a vital role in guiding their students toward healthier online habits and a better understanding of mental health. Let’s create a supportive and informed environment where students can grow and thrive emotionally and academically!
In our 9th grade #WinAtSocial Find Your Influencers lesson, Evaluating news sources and information in our social media feeds, students gain insights on how to examine the limitations of using social media as a news source and how to make informed decisions about the content they like or share.
If you are interested in learning more about our #WinAtSocial platform or you’re interested in running this lesson with your students, contact us today!
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