Social media platforms have become a go-to source for mental health information, especially among young users. But a new study suggests that much of what people encounter online, particularly on TikTok, may be unreliable or even misleading.
Researchers from the University of East Anglia (UEA) found that a significant share of posts related to conditions such as ADHD and autism contain inaccuracies or lack proper evidence. Their analysis, which covered multiple platforms including YouTube, Facebook, Instagram and X, points to a broader issue: misinformation around mental health is widespread, and in some cases, alarmingly high.
The study reviewed more than 5,000 posts across a range of mental health topics, from anxiety and depression to schizophrenia and eating disorders. It found that misleading content could make up as much as 56 per cent of posts in certain areas, highlighting how easily unverified claims can spread in highly engaging formats like short videos.
Among all platforms, TikTok stood out for having the highest levels of questionable content. According to the researchers, over half of the ADHD-related videos analysed, and around 52 per cent were found to be inaccurate. For autism-related content, the figure stood at 41 per cent. By comparison, misinformation rates were lower on YouTube, averaging about 22 per cent, and even lower on Facebook at under 15 per cent.
Experts say this matters because social media is increasingly shaping how young people understand their mental health. Many turn to these platforms to interpret symptoms or self-diagnose conditions. While this can sometimes prompt useful self-reflection, it also carries risks when the information is incomplete or incorrect.
Misleading content can blur the line between normal behaviour and clinical conditions, potentially leading people to wrongly believe they have a disorder, or, conversely, delay seeking help when they actually need it. It may also reinforce stigma, create unnecessary fear, or promote treatments that lack scientific backing.
The study also highlights a stark divide between who is creating content and how reliable it is. Posts made by healthcare professionals were consistently more accurate, but they represent only a small fraction of what users see. For instance, just 3 per cent of ADHD-related videos by professionals contained misinformation, compared to 55 per cent among non-professional creators.
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At the same time, the researchers acknowledge that personal stories and lived experiences shared by individuals can play a valuable role in raising awareness and helping others feel understood. The challenge lies in ensuring that such content is complemented by clear, evidence-based guidance from qualified experts.
Another key factor driving misinformation is the way platforms like TikTok operate. Their algorithms tend to prioritise content that is engaging and widely shared, regardless of its accuracy. Once users show interest in a topic, they are often fed a steady stream of similar videos, creating echo chambers where misleading ideas can quickly gain traction.
There are, however, some exceptions. The study found that YouTube Kids performed notably better, with no misinformation detected in content related to anxiety and depression, and relatively low levels, and around 8.9 per cent for ADHD. Researchers attribute this to stricter moderation and content controls.
Overall, the findings point to a growing need for stronger safeguards. The authors call for better moderation systems, clearer standards for identifying misinformation, and more active participation from clinicians and health organisations in creating accessible, trustworthy content.
As social media continues to shape public understanding of mental health, the study makes one thing clear: while these platforms can be powerful tools for awareness, without reliable information, they can just as easily become a source of confusion.
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