Mental health experts are sounding the alarm over widespread misinformation circulating online about borderline personality disorder, depression, bipolar disorder, and anxiety treatment. Several videos have been making claims that are not supported by evidence or are misleading, which can lead to harm and misdiagnosis.
Experts say that symptoms of these conditions can be everyday experiences, such as feeling anxious when plans change or experiencing mood swings. However, using these symptoms to diagnose conditions like borderline personality disorder or depression without proper context is problematic.
Therapeutic language is also being misused. For instance, some videos claim people with bipolar disorder experience rapid mood swings, but this is an oversimplification of a complex condition. Experts warn that such language can stigmatize mental health and trivialized the experiences of those living with it.
Misleading treatments are also prevalent. Some videos promote unproven methods like writing about traumatic experiences for 15 minutes non-stop or using breathing techniques without proper training. Experts say these methods can do more harm than good, as they can lead to self-diagnosis, mislabeling complex relational struggles, and exacerbating anxiety.
Furthermore, glib quotations are being shared that oversimplify complex emotional states. These quotes can be misleading and may not provide the individualized support needed for people struggling with mental health issues.
Lastly, anecdotal evidence is being promoted as a substitute for evidence-based practice. Experts warn against relying on personal experiences or unproven methods, which can create misconceptions about treatment options.
The experts emphasize the importance of seeking professional help from qualified therapists and psychiatrists who have the training and expertise to provide accurate diagnoses and effective treatments. They urge people to approach online content with a critical eye and seek information from reputable sources before self-diagnosing or trying unproven methods.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2025/may/31/what-is-the-most-common-mental-health-misinformation-on-tiktok