Young Australians favor social media for mental health help

Many young Australians are choosing social media over trained experts for mental health support, according to new research. A study by News Corp's Growth Distillery and Medibank found that nearly two in three Australians in this group prefer peer-driven platforms for information. This trend is significant among Gen Z, with 49% using Instagram and 44% using TikTok for mental health advice. The study highlights a concerning pattern. Those with poorer mental health are more likely to seek guidance from TikTok. While social media provides easy access, it also has downsides, with almost a third of Gen Z reporting negative effects from heavy use. Experts warn this reliance could worsen their mental health. Clinical psychologist Amanda Gordon noted that social media can change how people think and focus. She stressed that many young users are exposed to unrealistic images that lead to unhealthy comparisons. However, not all experts agree that social media is the sole cause of mental health declines. Some believe that other factors, such as financial concerns and climate anxiety, also play a role. Access to social media is often easier and more convenient than finding professional help. Young people may avoid the more in-depth questioning that comes with speaking to a mental health professional. This can lead to less personalized advice that may not be useful. However, there may be benefits to discussing experiences on social media. It can help young people feel less alone and reduce the stigma around seeking help. There are professionals engaging with users online, offering valuable information. Experts suggest that educating young people on how to critically assess information on social media is crucial. Dr. Clarke emphasizes the importance of developing skills to distinguish credible sources. This way, young Australians can better navigate mental health information they come across online. Additionally, managing social media use by limiting time spent online and cleaning up their feeds can support overall well-being. Overall, experts encourage young people to remember that not everything they see online is real and to build healthier habits regarding social media usage.