Disinformation & social media? See what this study says!

Misinformation can be defined as content that lacks a scientific basis and/or is factually incorrect, leading others into error (even if there is no intention to harm, deceive, or mislead). 

A systematic review published in the Journal of Social Media Search even points out that in one of the studies analyzed, 80% of health-related content is misinformation. Additionally, they also discovered that, on the social network TikTok, content about Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) has a misinformation prevalence of about 52%.

These data immediately lead us to reflect and realize that, more important than turning to the internet to stay updated and informed, we must carefully evaluate the veracity of what reaches our screens!

Throughout this article, you will find other relevant findings from this same study, as well as some tips to identify and combat misinformation! 👇

What did this study consist of?

Published this year, the systematic review Quality, reliability and misinformation in mental health and neurodivergence content on social media, analyzed about 27 studies to evaluate the accuracy, quality, and reliability of content regarding mental health and neurodivergence online.

The analysis consisted of comparing different platforms (Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and TikTok), and the various topics the content covered.

What were their conclusions?

Within the field of mental health and neurodivergence, the following levels of misinformation were found:

• Postpartum depression: between 3% and 7.81% (depending on the platform)
• Claustrophobia: 56.92%
• Mental health conditions and treatments: between 40% and 41% for Autism and 38.6% and 52% for ADHD. 

The explanation for these alarming figures may lie in the algorithm and content moderation of each platform, which appear to be factors directly related to the spread of false and scientifically unfounded information.

Interestingly, platforms like YouTube Kids and Facebook showed lower figures compared to other social networks like TikTok which seems to give greater prominence and visibility to trending, short-form videos. ✅

Researchers explain that this happens because YouTube tends to prioritize content from more established channels that are well-regarded on the platform and considered credible sources, and Facebook because it prioritizes pages that the user already follows and/or is "friends" with.

What is the root of misinformation?

In addition to the factors mentioned above (algorithm and content moderation), the variability of results obtained on the YouTube platform, which showed significant changes depending on the topic, suggests that one of the factors for the increase in misinformation is low health literacy among users. 

How can we identify fake news?

Identifying false or incorrect content is not always an easy task. However, before taking any information for granted, you should ask yourself:

💭 "Is this information from a credible page?"

Information shared by health organizations and professionals is of higher quality and reliability than content created by non-professionals. 

💭 "Is this information really that simple? What is the basis for it?"

When it comes to health, facts are never that simple! There are no miracle tips and/or solutions for solving and/or diagnosing mental health problems. 

When you come across this type of content, question it, look for other credible sources, and if necessary, seek support from health professionals. If you suspect a diagnosis, for example, it is important that it be confirmed by specialists so they can provide the correct follow-up. 

💭 “Is this data actually real, or is it just clickbait?”

Many headlines are strategically designed to grab the attention of social media users, often using phrasing intended to shock, scare, or go viral.

Watch out for expressions like “never,” “always,” or exaggerated numbers.

💭 “Which platform is this content coming from?”

As we’ve seen throughout this article, some platforms are more prone to spreading false and/or inaccurate content. Consider the platform where you are viewing the content and its typical style of communication. 

💭 “Are there other sources mentioning the same thing?”

When in doubt, dig deeper. Checking which other pages and/or entities mention the same data and/or information can be a good indicator of validity. Furthermore, content that references scientific studies reinforces the credibility of the information.

💭 “Do these images look real, or could they have been AI-generated?”

There is an increasing amount of content generated by artificial intelligence, including images and videos. Therefore, it is important to look for patterns that identify AI and not assume that all visual content is real. 

How can we avoid “fake news” and misinformation in healthcare?

Small actions can make a big difference! Following the previous line of thought, when you come across health content online, you should:

1) Don’t share without verifying

The rise of misinformation is linked to the sharing of content whose accuracy has not been fully proven.

2) Value credible sources

Prioritize content from recognized institutions and/or healthcare professionals!

3) Correct (without attacking or offending)

Combating misinformation also involves correcting content that we know is incorrect. We should alert others and mention the facts calmly and clearly.

4) Develop critical thinking

Navigating the digital world means questioning what appears on our screens: “Is this true?” “Does it have scientific validity?” “Is this sensationalist information?” “Are there professional opinions?” “Is there evidence?”.

What do our professionals say?

"Em contexto de consulta, por vezes os adolescentes partilham informação que viram partilhada nas redes sociais com a certeza de ser uma fonte credível. Quando proponho analisarmos essa informação à luz de conceitos como probabilidade dessa informação ser verídica, validação de fontes alternativas de informação e fazer usufruto de competências críticas de análise, por vezes essa “desinformação” partilhada torna-se evidente. Mais do que ausência de informação, neste momento em que vivemos, é cada vez mais importante que o acesso à internet de crianças seja monitorizado, pois são um grupo especialmente vulnerável e ingénuo. Também é importante conversar com os/as nossos/nossas adolescentes acerca de conteúdos com que se tenham deparado e estimular a sua capacidade crítica para que sejam eficazes a duvidar de fontes e de informações que pareçam desadequadas. É, assim, fundamental manter uma linha de comunicação ativa a que possam recorrer em caso de dúvida. De salientar que as redes sociais estão a ser encaradas como meios de difusão de estilos de vida, que muitas vezes levam a que crianças e jovens encarem esse nível de conforto ou de atividade como “normal”, quando na realidade apenas representa uma parte limitada da vida da pessoa que o está a partilhar. Este tipo de confronto entre o que é virtual e o que é a sua vida real pode alimentar perturbações de ansiedade ou estados depressivos, em que o jovem considera que não está a conseguir corresponder ao que seria de esperar, aumentando o sofrimento e mal-estar."

Dra. Carla Barbosa — Psicóloga Clínica

Final Thoughts

Addressing the impact of misinformation and fake or sensationalist news is becoming increasingly important. Misinformation regarding mental health can be harmful, potentially leading to stigma, false beliefs, and delays in seeking professional help (and in confirming diagnoses).

🧠 As specialists in the field of Neurofeedback and Clinical Psychology, we constantly strive to share information about this approach, its benefits, and how it can bring positive results for children, adolescents, and adults with ADHD or anxiety.

Most importantly, we always emphasize that diagnoses must be made by professionals, avoiding self-diagnosis and interventions without medical supervision and guidance. If you suspect you may be dealing with a disorder, you should contact qualified professionals who can provide the necessary guidance for a healthier routine and greater well-being! 🧡

References

Carter, A., Gracey, F., Moody, J., Ovens, A., & Chatburn, E. (2026). Quality, reliability and misinformation in mental health and neurodivergence content on social media: a systematic review. Journal of Social Media Research, 3(1), 30–47. https://doi.org/10.29329/jsomer.84 

European Parliament. (2025). Disinformation: 10 ways to protect yourself and others. https://www.europarl.europa.eu/topics/en/article/20250603STO28720/disinformation-10-ways-to-protect-yourself-and-others