We live in a time where mental health advice is everywhere.
A few swipes on Instagram or TikTok, and you’re met with endless posts telling you how to heal, how to be happy, and how to ‘fix’ yourself. Some of it is deeply insightful. Some of it is well-meaning but overly simplistic. And some of it is downright harmful.
With mental health awareness growing, more people are sharing their experiences, which is a beautiful thing. But with this rise comes a problem: not all advice is good advice. What works for one person might not work for another. And sometimes, advice that seems helpful on the surface can actually make things worse.
So, how do you navigate mental health advice online in a way that empowers, rather than harms, your wellbeing? Here are four things to keep in mind:
1. Beware of one-size-fits-all advice
Mental healing is not a single formula that fits every person. But on social media, you’ll often see posts that make it seem that way:
“Just think positive, and you’ll be happy.”
“Cut out all negative people, and your mental health will improve.”
“If you’re still struggling, you’re just not trying hard enough.”
While these messages might have a small grain of truth, they oversimplify complex issues. True healing is more nuanced than that — it involves learning the skills of emotional intelligence, self-regulation and self-awareness, and the ability to respond to life with wisdom.
Be wary of advice that dismisses the deeper work required for real lasting change.
2. Mental health ‘hacks’ aren’t a substitute for professional support
Trendy mental health tips, like breathwork techniques or morning routines, can be great tools — but they are not solutions for deep-seated struggles. While a five-second rule or an ice bath might boost your mood, they won’t address unresolved trauma, transform self-worth struggles or be the whole answer for your ongoing depression or anxiety.
If you’re facing serious challenges, mental health isn’t a good DIY project. It’s likely going to yield much better results to reach out to a trained therapist, coach, or someone with real expertise in the mental health field.
Don’t let social media convince you that all healing can be done through viral trends.
3. Watch out for toxic positivity
Social media loves a feel-good message. And while there’s nothing wrong with optimism, toxic positivity can be harmful. You’ll see messages like:
“Just be grateful — others have it worse.”
“Don’t focus on the negative — only good vibes!”
“Your struggles are just a mindset problem.”
But here’s the truth: Real mental wellbeing isn’t about thinking nice thoughts or avoiding (or hiding) painful emotions. It’s about learning to regulate thoughts and emotions with mindfulness, compassion, and mental flexibility.
Instead of suppressing your struggles, true inner strength comes from acknowledging them, working through them, and choosing helpful new ways of thinking and adapting that support your growth, wellbeing and happiness.
Discover more ways to regain control and create positive change in Melli O'Brien's book Deep Resilience.
4. Trust your inner wisdom
No social media post — no matter how many likes it has — knows you better than you do. If something doesn’t sit right with you, listen to that feeling.
Mental health advice should empower you, not make you feel guilty, ashamed, or like you’re failing if a certain technique doesn’t work.
Also be aware of the expertise of the person giving advice. Just because someone has a lot of followers it doesn’t mean what they are saying is ultimately going to be helpful for you.
The takeaway: Discernment is key
The internet is full of well-meaning voices, but not all voices are wise voices.
Learning to filter through mental health advice with discernment is a skill — one that will protect your wellbeing and keep you on a path that’s truly supportive.
One thing to try: Next time you come across mental health advice online, pause and ask yourself:
- Does this feel empowering and helpful or shaming?
- Is this advice rooted in research and expert advice, or just a personal opinion?
- Does this advice align with my values, needs, and inner wisdom?
Your mental health is too important to be shaped by social media trends. Trust yourself. Be discerning. Stay curious. And remember, real growth and healing isn’t found in a viral soundbite — it’s found in the way you show up for yourself every day.
