Popular TikTok videos about ADHD are full of misinformation

A recent study has found that more than half of the information shared in popular TikTok videos about attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) doesn’t align with clinical guidelines. This misinformation could potentially lead to individuals incorrectly self-diagnosing with ADHD, highlighting the impact of social media on perceptions of mental health conditions.

ADHD, which affects approximately 1 per cent of the global population according to the Global Burden of Disease study, has been a subject of debate regarding potential underdiagnosis. Psychologists suggest that the actual prevalence of ADHD might be higher than reported.

Researchers from the University of British Columbia (UBC) in Canada, led by Vasileia Karasavva, analyzed the top 100 most-viewed TikTok videos with the hashtag #ADHD to assess the accuracy of the information presented. The findings revealed that only 48.7 per cent of the claims made in these videos aligned with symptoms of ADHD outlined in the DSM-5, a prominent diagnostic manual for mental disorders. Additionally, many videos attributed common human experiences to ADHD, further contributing to misinformation.

According to Karasavva, the discrepancy between the information in the videos and clinical literature is concerning. The study involved psychologists rating the videos for accuracy and UBC students evaluating the videos based on their understanding of ADHD. The results showed that videos rated as more clinically accurate by psychologists received higher scores from students, indicating the influence of social media on shaping perceptions.

While the prevalence of medical misinformation on platforms like TikTok raises concerns, experts believe that banning such content may not be the solution. Karasavva suggests that a more effective approach could involve experts creating informative videos or users critically evaluating the content they consume. TikTok emphasized the importance of consulting medical professionals for advice on neurological conditions and stated their commitment to combating medical misinformation.

David Ellis from the University of Bath highlights the challenge of addressing misinformation, especially in the context of mental health issues that rely on subjective observations for diagnosis. The study underscores the need for improved accuracy in health-related content online and encourages individuals to be discerning when engaging with information on social media platforms.

As online platforms continue to influence public perceptions of health conditions, it becomes imperative to prioritize accuracy and reliability in information dissemination. By promoting informed discussions and encouraging critical thinking, individuals can navigate the complex landscape of online health content more effectively.