Blogs Featured on Clinician of Colors Blog: My Tiktok Algorithm Told Me I am Neurodivergent (Paid Submission)

There is a TikTok video we have seen or it’s been reposted on facebook, instagram or twitter.  The video indicates if you sleep with your hand tucked folded under your head or in the crane of your neck then you are probably neurodivergent and/or “on the spectrum [diagnosed with autism].” 

As a therapist the recent increased access to mental health services, therapists, mental health information and mental allies has been a beautiful renaissance to witness.  We went from the days of whispering “I am thinking about seeing a therapist” to the days of matter-of- factly discussing with friends, “my therapist is so amazing!  How are things with your therapist?” 

All good things come with challenges such as eating too much candy typically results in cavities.  The avalanche of psychoeducation and mental health information has also resulted in people proclaiming “these are the signs you have [insert diagnosis].” The intention with these videos are to provide education, support and affirmation you are not alone in your experience with your symptoms however; as a therapist I would encourage caution before returning to your next therapy appointment with your new diagnosis from your favorite influencer on TikTok or Instagram. 

In an effort to aid on processing information via TikTok and differentiating between an opinion of mental health influencer versus your therapist, I would encourage the following: 

Reflect and Identify.  What symptom(s) do you identify with in these videos?  The videos might mention symptoms related to executive functioning such as inability to remain on a task, being overwhelmed by situational possibilities, interpersonal difficulties, food preferences or unique personality corks. Reflect on how these symptoms have impacted your life overall including relationships, your ability to work and function throughout the day. 

Consider the Source.  Tiktok is a fabulous social media site and even I enjoy the funny videos and sound bites however; I often remind myself I do not truly know these people or have any way of authenticating their statements or confirming the products they are selling are worth my coins.  In considering the source of mental health diagnosis symptoms, consider is the person a licensed clinical provider? This could be a psychologist, master-licensed clinical or even a trainee.  If this person is not a licensed person, do they have any training in diagnosis, symptom identification and/or ruling out potential similar diagnosis? 

Lastly,  have you met or seen this person? If the answer is no then there is a lot of room for error and misdiagnosis or simply over identifying with others in the comments section.  In my work with clients, a diagnosis can be a life-changing label that can impact security-clearances, treatment prognosis as well as medication intervention. 

All of this is to say enjoy the videos! Like, share and comment on the posts that you identify with and affirm your experiences.  Be mindful that the providers or individuals sharing this information are doing so to improve awareness.  If you have thoughts and concerns about a potential diagnosis go to a licensed mental health provider for care to review potential symptoms, treatment options as well rule out any potential concerns.  

Enjoy your social media journey!