Emotional Wellness in the Age of TikTok

Mental health information labeled as helpful can still be inaccurate or unhelpful, especially when delivered as quick fixes. Over half of mental health information on TikTok was found to be incorrect by mental health experts, and regular TikTok use is linked to higher risk of depression and anxiety, particularly for people under 24. Despite advances in technology, science, and health care, emotional wellness levels have not improved over the past century. Rates of suicide, depression, anxiety, and overdose have increased, and more adults live alone than in the 1960s. Mental health problems are rising even with greater emphasis on happiness, self-esteem, and fulfillment. Emotional wellness change is supported by seven pillars that help people be, do, and think differently under pressure.

"Journalists interested in the use of TikTok to dispense mental health advice recently asked a panel of mental health experts about the advice that was provided on the platform. The experts concluded that over half of the information on TikTok about mental health was incorrect. If that were not concerning enough, research has demonstrated that anyone regularly using TikTok will be at an increased risk of experiencing depression and anxiety, especially those under the age of 24."

"Society has made tremendous advances in technology, science, and health care over the past century. At the same time, very little progress has been made in the levels of emotional wellness that people experience. Considering the increased rates of suicide, depression, anxiety, and overdose over the past 100 years, people are experiencing far more emotional distress now than ever."

"More adults live alone now (15 percent) than in the 1960s (7 percent). Mental health problems are increasing even though there is more emphasis on personal happiness, self-esteem, and individual fulfillment than at any time in history."

Read at Psychology Today