The advent of social media has revolutionized the way we access and share data, including information about mental health, substance use, traumatic experiences, and other issues. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), mental health issues are increasing year by year. Many of those reporting an increase in mental health symptoms such as depression and anxiety are young people, so it is not surprising that many are getting their mental health information from social media (World Health Organization, 2022).
However, alongside legitimate experts, a worrying trend has emerged: the rise of unlicensed and uncertified mental health influencers. A simple search for terms like “anxiety,” “depression,” “narcissistic abuse support,” or even “self-harm” will reveal hundreds, if not thousands, of unlicensed and uncertified coaches and influencers who claim to help those seeking support. While often well-intentioned, these individuals tend to lack formal qualifications or oversight and pose a great risk by spreading inaccurate or harmful advice. Ironically, research has shown that there is an association between increased social media use and increased mental health symptoms (Beyari, 2023).
Here are some of the risks associated with unauthorized influencers spreading information about mental health on social media:
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Lack of qualifications and expertise
One of the main concerns about uncertified mental health influencers is their lack of formal credentials and expertise. Unlike qualified mental health professionals who go through rigorous education, training, licensing processes, and accountability, influencers may lack the clinical knowledge and skills necessary to provide accurate, evidence-based guidance.
This shortage can lead to the spread of misinformation, outdated treatment techniques, or potentially harmful advice that does not take into account the complexities of mental illness and individualized treatment needs. Research has shown that the spread of misinformation and disinformation is a serious problem on social media, which can cause harm when people unknowingly absorb and follow misinformation (Shearer et al., 2024).
Spreading misinformation and misconceptions
Because social media is unchecked, misinformation can spread quickly and is often presented as trusted advice by influencers. Unqualified mental health influencers can inadvertently spread myths and misconceptions about mental health conditions, treatment, and the recovery process (Shearer et al., 2024). Such misinformation can undermine public trust in evidence-based practice and discourage individuals from seeking appropriate professional help, exacerbating mental health issues.
Ethical concerns and harmful advice
Ethical guidelines and standards of practice are essential for responsible mental health advocacy and support. Qualified professionals adhere to a code of ethics that prioritizes client welfare, confidentiality, and informed consent.
In contrast, unqualified influencers may promote unproven treatments, encourage risky behaviors, or exploit vulnerable individuals who seek guidance. This lack of ethical oversight can result in unintended harm, including worsening symptoms, delays in appropriate treatment, and psychological distress.
Impact on vulnerable populations
Social media platforms provide a global platform for vulnerable populations, including adolescents, individuals in crisis, and those with limited access to mental health resources, to seek information and support. One example is a queer teenager who is unable to come out to their family and instead chooses to seek support online. In an ideal scenario, they would find validation and support for their identity; however, there is a risk that the opposite will happen. Without proper qualifications, influencers may lack the cultural competency and sensitivity necessary to address diverse experiences and identities.
Lack of accountability and responsibility
Qualified mental health professionals are accountable to regulatory bodies and professional standards, ensuring adherence to best practice and ethical guidelines. In contrast, unqualified influencers operate without oversight, exposing their followers to advice that lacks scientific validity or clinical relevance. Without accountability mechanisms, there is a risk of unchecked harm as influencers spread inaccurate or harmful content with little or no punishment.
Of course, it is important to remember that having a degree or license does not automatically insulate an individual from the possibility of harm, but this form of gatekeeping is essential to ensure that mental health advice complies with established ethical standards and evidence-based practice. Licensed professionals are subject to rigorous training, supervision, and accountability measures designed to protect clients and maintain the integrity of mental health practice, helping to mitigate the risks associated with unregulated and unlicensed advice.
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Undermining trust in mental health professionals
The rise of unqualified mental health influencers can undermine public trust in qualified professionals and evidence-based practices. Misinformation spread online can create skepticism about the reliability of established treatments, therapies, and qualified practitioners. This skepticism can discourage individuals from seeking culturally competent and trauma-informed mental health care, potentially compromising their health.
There are some important steps you can take to ensure the information you find online about your mental health is useful and trustworthy.
1. Check the source.
Is this person/group qualified to make these claims? Review the qualifications and credentials of the person or organization providing the information. Review details such as professional affiliations, degrees, certifications, and licensure in the mental health field.
This doesn't mean you need a degree or a certain number of letters after your name to be knowledgeable on a particular topic, nor does it mean that people with degrees or qualifications shouldn't spread false or misleading information, but it does mean we can learn about the poster's background and purpose.
2. Check the message.
Be wary of sensationalized or oversimplified explanations of complex mental health issues and claims of “miracle cures” or quick fixes without scientific backing. For example, be wary of people who appear to be driven by revenge or who spread information about narcissism and similar conditions. This doesn't mean they haven't been victimized, and their message is likely to be that of someone at a particular stage of healing and may not resonate with you.
3. Compare and cross-check.
Cross-check information from multiple reliable sources to ensure consistency and reliability. Look for agreement among experts in the field regarding treatment methods, symptoms, and outcomes. Don't just take one person's word at face value; if they have validity in their claims, others will likely say the same.
