WATCH: SOCIAL MEDIA SELF DIAGNOSIS

MEMPHIS, Tenn. -  Another social media trend is alarming to doctors.

This one is not about crazy stunts or eating things you shouldn't. This time, it's people diagnosing themselves with everything from depression to autism based on what they learn on social platforms.
 
While there may be some truth in what's shared in these videos, doctors stress the importance of getting a real diagnosis from a provider.
 
TikTok is a home to viral videos and dangerous trends. And now some people, especially teens and young adults, are using it to self-diagnose developmental and mental health conditions.
 
"As of late, we are seeing people identify that perhaps they are on the spectrum for autism, and also other anxiety disorders," Renee Dillard, the program director for Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare's Employee Assistance Program said.
 
Dillard is a licensed clinical social worker. She said these videos can raise awareness and reduce stigma around these conditions, but they also can lead people to believe they have a condition they don't.
 
"When it comes to a clear diagnosis, we need that full bio psychosocial assessment that is completed by a highly qualified either physician or mental health provider," she said. "Those diagnoses take a little bit of time."
 
Dillard said people who believe they have a condition can sometimes develop very real symptoms.
 
"By perhaps becoming hyper vigilant on these symptoms, that in and of itself can create some additional stress and anxiety," she said.
 
That's why social media users FOX13 talked to say it's a reminder to not to believe everything you see online.
 
"You should always get a physician or a professional to give you the information that you need," Vernon Hillard said. "With social media, sometimes you don't get the correct information."
 
Dillard encourages people to pay attention to the duration and severity of symptoms.
 
Just because you had a bad day, week or month doesn't mean you have a mental health condition. But if symptoms persist, it may be time to seek medical help.
Download the FOX13 Memphis app to receive alerts from breaking news in your neighborhood.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD

Trending stories:

        Tags

        More News