Mental health has become a pressing concern on social media platforms like TikTok, where users can share their experiences and connect with others who may be going through similar struggles. However, the platform's influence on mental health awareness is not always positive.
A recent study published in PLOS One found that over half of popular TikTok videos using the #ADHD hashtag contained false claims about Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), contradicting the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders used for clinical diagnosis. This misinformation has sparked criticism from mental health advocates, including Rebecca Shaw and Demi Lynch.
The removal of the #ADHD hashtag has led to a new trend on TikTok where users are using filters to make themselves appear "chubby" and laughing at the results. Influencer Stephanie Miller, who was diagnosed with ADHD in 2024, is cautious about spreading misinformation on social media, highlighting the need for accurate information and awareness about mental health conditions.
The impact of these trends on individuals like Emma, a woman who felt disheartened by the #ADHD hashtag, underscores the importance of responsible mental health representation on social media. As mental health advocates continue to raise awareness about ADHD, it is crucial that they do so in an accurate and respectful manner to avoid perpetuating harm and misinformation.