1) Does the presenter have formal training or credentials?
Mental health professionals undergo years of education, supervision, and hands-on training. Licensed practitioners also need to meet annual continuing-education requirements to stay on top of new research in the field. An influencer or celebrity can bring visibility to an issue, but they’re likely not the right source for expertise.
2) Do they cite quality research?
What studies or references, if any, do they cite? If they’re sharing their own story, do they make it clear that their experience may not reflect everyone else’s? Look for data and nuance, not generalizations.
3) Are they selling something?
Before taking someone’s advice, consider why they might be sharing it. If they’re sponsored by a brand or promoting a product, they’re probably more interested in attention than education.
4) Are they trying too hard to get your attention?
Too-good-to-be-true claims (“This one trick will change your life”) and highly charged language (“toxic,” “miraculous,” “infuriating”) generate clicks but don’t bode well for credibility.
Mental Health Self-Diagnosis
Many people are consulting social media for mental health information. Learn about the pros and cons of this trend — and how to find quality guidance online — at “The Rise of Mental Health Self-Diagnosis,” from which this article was excerpted.
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