As we continue to endure this cold winter, many are feeling the impact on their moods and coping. As such, mental health has become a topic of conversation in the media, often resulting in “tips and tricks” from influencers who are not mental health professionals. 

While opening the dialogue on mental health across social media, podcasts, blogs, and news outlets is a positive step toward reducing stigma, however as these posts and discussions surface, a concerning trend has emerged: non-therapists offering advice and opinions on complex mental health topics. While these voices can help normalize mental health concerns, they also pose risks to those who are truly struggling and seeking relief.

Without proper training, non-therapists unintentionally oversimplify conditions like anxiety, depression, or trauma, promoting “quick fixes” that are not backed by the research and expertise that comes from evidence-based care. One example is influencers providing personal stories of mental health struggles and ways in which they have helped themselves. These personal stories are often promoted as universal truths (think: “I helped myself recover, you can too” messaging). This dangerous over-simplification runs the risk of self-diagnosis, invalid comparisons and unrealistic expectations of recovery outcomes. 

Another issue is the rise of mental health commodification. Brands and influencers often frame self-care or mental health as something you can buy—whether it’s a product, a course, or a lifestyle. This can lead people to believe that their well-being depends on purchases rather than sustainable, internal growth. Non-professionals promoting results in a cookie cutter approach that does not consider differences in symptoms, and individual history can have serious consequences.

So, how can consumers separate fact and fiction? Start by checking credentials. Registered mental health professionals list their qualifications and reference established research. Although these credentials do not guarantee the information will  be helpful for everyone, information is presented in a way that explains key mental health concepts and stresses the need for individualized support. Credentialed professionals are guided by strict ethical guidelines that are designed to protect the public from misinformation and unethical practice, and they take these very seriously. 

Do your research about the source and the advice they are giving. Be wary of promises of results or reliance on personal stories. Next, cross-reference information from reputable sources, such as the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), Anxiety Canada and the Canadian Mental Health Association.

Messages in the media, although well intentioned, are not therapy. They can be used to start dialogue, bring issues into focus and cultivate skills that are helpful but they don’t replace expert guidance. For those seeking support, working with a trained professional remains the safest and most effective way to navigate mental health challenges.