When Relatable Becomes Risky: Social Media & Misdiagnosis

When Relatable Becomes Risky: Social Media & Misdiagnosis

In the age of reels and relatable TikToks, mental health content is more accessible than ever. You scroll past a 30-second clip on “5 Signs You Have ADHD,” and suddenly, you’re wondering—Is that me? It’s validating. It’s comforting. But it can also be misleading.

The Upside of Social Media Awareness
There’s no doubt that social media has helped break the stigma surrounding mental health. It’s opened doors to conversations many of us never knew how to start. For people who’ve long felt unseen, seeing their experiences reflected in others can be powerful.

But Here’s the Catch...
Not every piece of mental health content is accurate—or relevant to you. Social media posts often present broad or oversimplified symptoms that apply to many conditions. Feeling scattered, tired, or overstimulated can be part of ADHD… but they can also be caused by stress, trauma, anxiety, or simply not getting enough sleep.

Why Misdiagnosis Matters
Self-diagnosing based on a video or post can delay proper support. You might seek out the wrong kind of help—or avoid help altogether, thinking you’ve already “figured it out.” Misdiagnosis can also lead to trying ineffective strategies, frustration with your progress, or even unnecessary shame.

How to Navigate Social Media Mindfully

• Use content as a conversation starter, not a conclusion.

• Seek information from licensed professionals, not just influencers.

• If something resonates deeply, consider getting a professional evaluation.

• Remind yourself that relatable doesn’t always mean diagnostic.

Validation is Important—So Is Accuracy
Your experiences are valid, even if they don’t point to a specific diagnosis. If you’ve found yourself wondering, “Is there more going on here?”—a psychological evaluation can help provide clarity, confidence, and a personalized roadmap forward.