Why Social Media Isn’t Your Therapist: Social Media Self-Diagnosis
We Need to Talk About Mental Health Trends on Social Media
If you’ve ever watched a TikTok that said, “You might have ADHD if…” or found yourself scrolling through a trauma story that hit a little too close to home, you’re not alone.
Social media has become one of the loudest voices in the mental health conversation, and while that has opened some important doors, it has also created confusion.
In this week’s episode of This Therapist Has Problems Podcast, I’m diving into the growing trend of self-diagnosis based on what we see online and what we need to be mindful of.
The Rise of “Relatable” Mental Health Content
Let me start by saying this: I love that we’re talking about mental health more than ever before. For so long, topics like anxiety, depression, and trauma were avoided or hidden.
Now, mental health shows up on our timelines daily. That visibility can be powerful. People feel seen, validated, and less alone.
But here’s the other side. Relatable does not always mean diagnosable.
When Relatable Becomes Risky
One of the biggest concerns I see in my therapy work is how quickly people start to self-diagnose after seeing a few trending videos.
You’ve probably seen the posts:
- “If you lose your keys all the time, you might have ADHD”
- “If you feel sad and tired, you may be depressed”
- “If you like things clean, maybe you have OCD”
The truth? These symptoms can overlap with stress, burnout, sleep deprivation, or just being human.
Without a full clinical evaluation, it’s not safe or helpful to label yourself with a disorder. Misdiagnosis can lead to unnecessary fear, avoidance, or using a label as a crutch instead of a pathway to healing.
Traits vs. Disorders: There’s a Big Difference
One of the most important things I highlight in the episode is this:
A trait is not a disorder.
Maybe you’re more introverted. Maybe you love routines or need your space to be clean. That doesn’t mean you’re on the autism spectrum or that you have OCD.
When we start assigning ourselves clinical terms without professional guidance, we may be limiting ourselves, reinforcing false narratives, or miscommunicating our needs to others.
What to Do When a Video Hits Home
Here’s how to take a more mindful approach when something you see online feels personal:
- Pause and reflect
Ask yourself: Is this a consistent pattern in my life, or just a moment I relate to right now? - Do some research from credible sources
Websites like NAMI, Mayo Clinic, and Psychology Today provide research-backed definitions and criteria. - Talk to a licensed professional
Social media can be a starting point, but it is not a diagnostic tool. Only a mental health provider can assess your full experience in context. - Be aware of confirmation bias
Just because something feels true does not mean it is clinically accurate. - Balance your feed
Mental health content is great, but mix in joy, humor, and content that uplifts you. You are more than what you struggle with.
You Are More Than a Trend or a Label
Here’s what I want you to know, whether you’re just starting your mental health journey or deep in the process:
You are not broken. You are not alone. And you are more than a label.
A diagnosis, when appropriate, is just a tool to help guide treatment and support. It should never become your full identity.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If something you’ve seen online has made you pause and wonder, I invite you to take that curiosity offline and into a space that’s built to support you.
And if you haven’t already, be sure to check out the full podcast episode for a deeper dive into these tools and real-life reflections.
🎧 Watch now: Mental Health Trends & Self-Diagnosis
If you’re in Texas and looking for therapy, reach out to me here.
If you’re located elsewhere and not sure where to begin, I’m happy to help connect you to resources or providers in your state.
You deserve care that’s personal, grounded, and built around your needs, not a social media algorithm.
Need support now?
📞 Call or text 988 for immediate help through the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
Thanks for reading. If this blog resonated with you, please share it with someone who might need to hear it. Let’s keep the conversation going.
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