The accuracy of mental health and neurodivergence information across social media platforms was investigated by researchers at the University of East Anglia (UEA)
More than half (52%) of TikTok videos related to ADHD are inaccurate, a study shows today.
Some 41% of autism clips on the social media platform are also inaccurate, the inquiry suggests. Experts raised fears that vulnerable people are receiving misleading health content.
The accuracy of mental health and neurodivergence information across social media platforms, including YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, Instagram and X, formerly Twitter, was investigated by researchers at the University of East Anglia (UEA).
The experts raised concerns about a “powerful echo chamber” that is reinforcing false or exaggerated claims. And they warned that social media algorithms, which are designed to push rapidly engaging content, is a “major driver of misinformation”.
TikTok raised questions about the veracity of the study and said the research was outdated. Social media is also seen as a vital way for communities to share lived-experience of their condition.
READ MORE: Social media ban for under-16s rejected in Commons – see how your MP voted
The study found TikTok frequently contained higher levels of inaccurate or unsubstantiated mental health content than other platforms. Meanwhile, YouTube was described as “highly inconsistent”, with videos ranging from poor to moderately reliable, depending heavily on the topic, channel and influencer.
Dr Alice Carter, who undertook the research as part of her doctoral thesis, said: “When we looked closely at TikTok content, studies reported that 52 per cent of ADHD-related videos and 41 per cent of autism videos analysed were inaccurate. By contrast, YouTube averaged 22 per cent misinformation, while Facebook averaged just under 15 per cent.”
She continued: “While lived-experience can play an important role, with personal stories helping people to feel understood and raising awareness of mental health conditions, it is vital to ensure that accurate and evidence-based information from clinicians and trusted organisations is also visible and easy to find.”
“TikTok’s algorithms are also designed to push rapidly engaging content and this is a major driver of misinformation.
“Once users show interest in a topic, they are bombarded with similar posts – creating powerful echo chambers that can reinforce false or exaggerated claims.”
Dr Eleanor Chatburn, from UEA’s Norwich Medical School, added: “Social media has become an important place where many young people learn about mental health, but the quality of this information can vary greatly. This means that misleading content can circulate quickly, particularly if there aren’t accessible and reliable sources available.”
She continued: “As well as leading to misunderstanding of serious conditions and pathologising ordinary behaviour, misinformation can also lead to delayed diagnosis for people that actually do need help. When false ideas spread, they can feed stigma and make people less likely to reach out for support when they really need it.”
A TikTok spokesman said: “This is a flawed study that relies on outdated research about multiple platforms. The facts are that we remove harmful health misinformation and provide access to reliable information from the WHO, so that our community can express themselves about what matters to them and find support.”
The UEA said its systematic review is the first to examine mental health and neurodivergence information across multiple social media platforms. The team have called for improved content moderation, standardised tools for assessing online mental health information, and clearer definitions of misinformation.