TikTok and Self-Diagnosis: When to Trust Your Gut and When to Seek Therapy

I’ll admit it—I love TikTok. There’s something about scrolling for twenty minutes, laughing at dog videos, and catching up with friends. It’s also fun to find those creators who brighten my day. My friends? Well, they might say they’re the unwilling recipients (or victims) of the endless stream of funny TikToks I send them.

However, as much as TikTok can be an entertaining escape, it has a downside, especially regarding mental health. Lately, I’ve noticed more videos where therapists (and non-therapists) ask vague questions. Suddenly, people feel they’ve self-diagnosed serious mental health conditions. That’s where things get tricky.

At some point, we all experience sadness, anxiety, trouble concentrating, or moments of pure exhaustion. That’s part of being human. Not every difficult emotion means you have a diagnosable disorder that needs treatment through an expensive app promising to "fix" you. Feeling a full range of emotions is natural. The real question is: When do these struggles indicate it’s time to seek therapy?

How Do You Know When It’s Time for Psychotherapy?

My go-to barometer is simple: How is this problem affecting my life? Here are some questions my clients often ask themselves before starting therapy:

• Am I avoiding social situations that I once enjoyed?

• Have I pulled away from relationships with people I love?

• Am I staying in bed for extended periods of time?

• Do I feel emotionally numb?

• Do I wish I could feel happier but don’t know how?

• Am I struggling with imposter syndrome or constant self-doubt?

  
  

If any of these questions resonate with you, therapy might be worth exploring.

What Psychotherapy Can Offer You

Therapy isn’t about labeling emotions as "problems." It’s about untangling unhelpful thoughts, processing emotions, and learning how to manage life in a way that makes things feel better. I help my clients work through tough stuff, providing practical tools to shift perspectives, manage emotions, and build resilience.

Just to clear up a common misconception—I don’t sit silently, nod, and ask, How does that make you feel? That’s not my style. I’m an interactive therapist who offers structure, refocusing, and real solutions. I bring 26 years of experience to my sessions, employing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) strategies. My goal is to help my clients increase joy and satisfaction in their lives.

Oh, and if you have one of those aha! moments in therapy? You’re going to see me do my silly happy dance—it’s part of the deal.

Understanding Mental Health Struggles

Mental health struggles can manifest in various ways. They might feel overwhelming but understanding these feelings can be a vital first step toward healing. Many people face unique challenges, such as work-related stress, relationship problems, or life transitions. Each struggle can create a negative spiral if not addressed.

When faced with these situations, some people turn to TikTok for support. They may think they are finding community or understanding through relatable content. But sometimes, this can lead to misinformation or temporary distractions rather than lasting solutions.

The Importance of Professional Guidance

Navigating mental health issues is essential. While TikTok offers entertaining content, it should not replace professional guidance. A qualified therapist can guide you through your thoughts, emotions, and challenges. An experienced professional will help you identify patterns, cope effectively, and develop useful strategies.

Remember, everyone’s journey is different. What works for one person might not work for another. A therapist can personalize therapy to meet your specific needs, ensuring you’re not left with cookie-cutter solutions.

Let’s Get Started

Mental health is too important to rely on TikTok trends or AI-generated advice. If you’re struggling with any of the signs above, let’s talk. I offer a free 10-minute consultation to see if we’re the right fit. I provide online therapy through a HIPAA-compliant telehealth platform, and I’m in-network with Aetna, United Healthcare, and Oxford. I also use ALMA and Headway for insurance billing if I am not in-network with your plan. My clients reside in New York, New Jersey, and Florida.

You deserve support. Let’s take the next step together. I look forward to meeting you! Please reach out to me through this website or email me at ROBINGLCSWR@GMAIL.COM

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