Are Therapy Memes and Buzzwords Setting You Back?

Mental health has catapulted to the forefront of public conversation over the past few years. Social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok are flooded with therapy-themed memes, advice snippets, and “healing hacks.”

At first glance, this increased conversation about mental health seems like progress. We’re breaking stigmas. We’re normalizing the conversation. But as I discussed on a recent episode of the Mentally Stronger podcast, these mental health conversations may be backfiring.

Now that mental health has become a trendy topic, many influencers without mental health expertise have decided to join the trend. A 2022 study revealed that 52 percent of mental health content shared by influencers is inaccurate. More disturbingly, the proliferation of buzzwords, oversimplified advice, and self-diagnosis trends often causes people to delay seeking professional help.

Buzzwords Mislead People

Terms like gaslighting, triggered, and toxic have become staples of online mental health conversations. While these words have legitimate meaning rooted in psychology, they are often used out of context on social media. For instance, disagreements in relationships are casually labeled as gaslighting when, in reality, gaslighting is a severe form of emotional manipulation designed to make someone question their sense of reality.

Similarly, advice such as “cut toxic people out of your life” is splashed across pastel backdrops with promises of empowerment. While boundaries are crucial, relationships are rarely that simple. Blanket statements like these undermine the complexities of human interaction and can encourage isolation. Consequently, people may not take the opportunity to resolve conflict and nurture genuine connections.

The problem arises when "therapy-speak" creates a surface-level understanding of mental health concepts. It dilutes the depth and nuance required to address our emotions and relationships effectively. It can lead to miscommunication and increased conflict when these terms are misunderstood or even weaponized.

Self-Diagnosis Can Be Dangerous

Another rising trend is the spread of self-diagnosis quizzes and symptom checklists. You’ve likely encountered posts or videos that read: “If you feel X, Y, and Z, you might have ADHD.” “Five signs you have smiling depression.” These quizzes may feel relatable or even comforting, but diagnosing mental health conditions requires expertise. Unfortunately, many people may diagnose themselves with a label that doesn't fit.

Self-diagnosis bypasses the context and nuance that mental health professionals bring to the table. Worse yet, these assumptions can deter people from seeking licensed therapists, as they believe they’ve already figured things out.

The Pressure to Heal Prevents People From Living Their Best Lives

The culture surrounding social media’s “healing journeys” creates another issue altogether. The word “healing” itself implies that we are broken and need to be fixed to live fulfilling lives. But personal growth and mental health don’t follow a clear path from brokenness to perfection. Being human inherently involves ups and downs, joys and struggles, and emotional scars.

The constant emphasis on self-improvement can leave people feeling inadequate. If you’re not journaling daily, meditating for 20 minutes, or setting picture-perfect boundaries, it might feel like you’re failing at self-development. This added pressure to “do healing right” can stir up guilt, shame, or feelings of being stuck.

Navigating Mental Health Content Online

Social media isn’t inherently bad for mental health. If you follow credible accounts sharing solid mental health information, you may find it incredibly helpful. Here’s how to ensure you’re consuming helpful, rather than harmful, content:

1. Evaluate the Source's Credibility
   Before trusting a piece of advice, check the source. Does the person sharing this content have legitimate qualifications, such as being a licensed therapist, a psychologist, or part of a credible mental health organization? Make it a habit to scrutinize the credentials of the accounts you follow before you take mental health tips to heart.
2. Beware of Oversimplifications
   Mental health is complex and deeply personal. Advice that promises to “cure” anxiety or depression in a few steps is likely missing the broader picture. Look for content that acknowledges that growth isn’t a one-size-fits-all strategy.
3. Question Intentions
   Is the creator of a post genuinely trying to help, or are they chasing likes and shares? Sometimes, even well-meaning advice is offered to garner attention rather than provide real solutions. Steer clear of accounts that prioritize creating viral content over offering valuable information.
4. Engage Offline
   The most effective mental health tools often happen away from screens. Whether you enjoy hiking with friends or practicing yoga, the action you take away from your screen is what matters most.

Social Media Essential Reads

Can Facebook Facilitate Relationship Reconciliation?

How Social Media Impacts Psychiatric Symptoms

A Balanced Approach to Growth

Social media can be a great starting point for raising awareness, but it will never replace the need for personal insight, professional care, and meaningful, real-world connections.

If you are concerned about your mental health, turn to trusted resources over hashtags and trends. And talk to a therapist if you're interested in learning whether you have a mental illness or if you want treatment, have questions, or want more information about how to improve your mental health.