I have to confess: I’ve become a bit of a TikTok addict. It’s a fun platform where I can unwind and learn something new. But at 42, I’ve developed a sense of what’s credible and what should be taken lightly. My teenage son, however, isn’t quite there yet. I keep a close watch on his TikTok habits, ensuring he doesn’t get lost in endless scrolling. I want him to explore, but I’m not ready to let him dive headfirst into the unknown.
There’s a growing trend on TikTok where teens share mental health experiences and diagnoses they believe they have. While there are indeed individuals with genuine diagnoses sharing their stories, many others are merely mimicking what they see. For adolescents facing the usual struggles of growing up, it can be tough to differentiate between typical teenage angst and serious mental health issues. As reported by the Wall Street Journal, young people are increasingly searching for information on mental health conditions like borderline personality disorder and dissociative identity disorder—conditions that are actually quite rare, yet many teens are convinced they share these labels.
Moreover, TikTok has been linked to a rise in disordered eating behaviors among its young audience. There’s even been a noticeable increase in behaviors resembling Tourette syndrome, which some attribute to popular creators showcasing their experiences with the condition. “This is a wake-up call regarding the impact of social media,” stated pediatric neurologist Dr. Sam Peters, highlighting the need for awareness.
In response to these concerns, TikTok issued a statement in September 2021, emphasizing their dedication to their users’ mental well-being. They are rolling out well-being guides developed in collaboration with organizations like the International Association for Suicide Prevention and the Crisis Text Line. These resources aim to assist users in navigating mental health discussions responsibly. However, while these initiatives are commendable, we must remember that teens are impressionable. Adults aren’t immune either—how many times have you googled your symptoms on WebMD and ended up convinced you had a serious illness? It’s common for young people to echo that same fear regarding their mental health.
Another alarming issue is the influence of diet culture that many teens encounter online. The seemingly innocent “before and after” posts and endless diet tips can lead to harmful comparisons and unhealthy habits. As one parent, Laura, shared about her daughter who frequently changed her self-diagnoses, “It’s unsettling knowing that social media can amplify these feelings of inadequacy.”
So, what can we do to support our teens?
Here are a few suggestions:
- Listen to Your Teen: Encourage open communication. It’s crucial for them to feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings with you. This support can pave the way for seeking professional help if necessary. Dr. Peters emphasizes that dismissing their feelings can be detrimental.
- Take a Break from Social Media: Everyone needs a breather now and then. Sometimes, stepping back from social media can help refocus energy towards healthier activities—like hobbies, family time, or even just playing a board game.
- Reset Your Social Media Accounts: Given TikTok’s powerful algorithm, starting fresh with a new account can help filter out harmful content. If that’s not feasible, consider using the “not interested” feature on mental health-related videos until they stop appearing on your feed.
TikTok can be a double-edged sword when it comes to sharing mental health experiences. It’s crucial for us to foster understanding and kindness, especially towards those facing different challenges. If your kids are struggling, let them know they can always come to you. Keep an eye on their social media habits—it can be a powerful resource, but also one that may lead to harmful misinformation.
For more insights, check out resources like Women’s Health for pregnancy-related topics or Make A Mom which offers at-home insemination options and valuable information on home insemination methods, including the BabyMaker Home IntraCervical Insemination Syringe Kit. Additionally, you can find support in the Make A Mom Facebook group for those exploring sperm donor matching. For further reading, consider visiting another one of our blog posts here.
In summary, while TikTok can serve as a platform for sharing mental health experiences, it’s essential to approach the information critically and ensure our teens feel supported in discussing their feelings and challenges. Awareness and communication are key in navigating this complex digital landscape.
Leave a Reply