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When you’re struggling with a mental health concern, it can be hard to know where to turn. You might be able to find some advice using social media, AI chatbots, or online forums. But you also could get information overload and feel more stressed than ever.
“It can be super overwhelming to have access to all this information and not know how to determine what’s relevant,” says Karen R. Stewart, MD, chief of Behavioral Health for The Southeast Permanente Medical Group.
It’s also hard to know what’s credible and what’s best for you. With so much information to consider, you could end up delaying care or not taking action. But there are ways to be smart about researching symptoms online so you can get the care you need. With guidance from Dr. Stewart, you can learn how to spot information overload and misinformation so you can navigate the digital chaos and find peace of mind.
Beware of mental health misdiagnoses from online resources1
Online resources at your fingertips can be enticing and easy to use. Newer AI platforms can be impressive, but they sometimes generate inaccurate or misleading information. Reddit and social media influencers may offer compelling stories, but their content isn’t always applicable to you.
Trying to match your experience or symptoms to what's online can lead to more problems than answers. When people go on platforms like Instagram and TikTok, they often get influenced by what’s trending in mental health. For example, Dr. Stewart says she’s seen a surge in the number of people who insist they have Attention-Deficit /Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). “Sometimes, it is true you have ADHD. But sometimes it could be really high anxiety that causes similar issues with focus and concentration.”
Don’t risk misdiagnosing yourself, Dr. Stewart warns. The internet doesn’t know your medical history. It can’t offer personalized treatment, and it can’t check on your progress like your own doctor. Many of the content creators aren’t professionally trained and licensed the way medical professionals at Kaiser Permanente are.
How to be smart when looking online for information on mental health
People crave knowledge. And when used wisely, the web and artificial intelligence may offer easy ways to quickly learn about medical issues. Here are tips on how to be smart about your online time so you don’t get overwhelmed — and to ensure you get information that’s both accurate and relevant:
- Skip videos. Start reading. “Reading something can be more helpful and less anxiety-provoking than watching a video,” says Dr. Stewart. Videos come with sounds and images that can be triggering.
- Watch for red flags. The internet is full of articles from unaccredited and biased sources. But typically, websites ending in .gov, .edu, or .org have more reliable information. When visiting a new resource, consider whether the content creators might have ideological or financial biases. Avoid content that feels sensationalized or too good to be true. Feel empowered to bring your research to an appointment with your provider to include in your conversation.
- Set boundaries with screen time. “Are you getting any benefits from these forums or are you only becoming more anxious from them?” asks Dr. Stewart. Even if you are receiving some benefits, Dr. Stewart recommends limiting the amount of time you spend online researching your issues. If nothing positive is happening, it’s time to move on.
Avoid health misinformation by seeking credible partners
When you need support, step one might be to look for online mental health resources, digital tools, and integrated care that are research-based. But that’s not all you need. You want to be sure to get:
- Treatment tailored to you, not one-size-fits-all. At Kaiser Permanente, your health care team can see your medical history. That gives them a well-rounded perspective on your needs. Plus, you and your care team can work together to arrive at a treatment plan that puts you on a path toward your goals.
- Convenient care options, not hard-to-find help. Kaiser Permanente members can access science-backed online resources that are easy to use. This includes:
- Headspace, a self-care mental health app with a live, text-based emotional support coach available 24/7
- Online self-assessment tools, support groups, and classes on a range of mental health topics
- Crisis intervention when you need immediate support for your mental well-being; available 24/7 — no referral needed
- Trustworthy medical advice, not unverified opinions. “It is not odd these days to have people trust influencers or AI more than they trust their physicians,” says Dr. Stewart. She suggests looking for a provider who listens to your concerns and walks you through the logic behind their diagnosis.
If you don’t know where to start, you can always turn to your primary care team. This team can direct you to mental health services so you can get ongoing treatment. Or, if you prefer, you can request a one-on-one appointment with a mental health specialist, either in person or virtually. No referrals needed. Just call or schedule a time online or through the Kaiser Permanente app.
- Reliable, ongoing support, not one-time tips. With a trusted provider, you can discuss your progress. You’ll also get follow-ups and help with prescriptions. Online videos, comment sections, and influencers cannot do that for you.
Get mental health support you can trust
Information overload and misinformation are real — they can add to a sense of confusion and anxiety. But taking care of your mental wellness doesn’t have to be that way. You can be confident in connected care tailored to you with Kaiser Permanente’s licensed providers. Plus, you’ll have access to reliable online mental health resources — available anytime for your peace of mind.