Lately, I’ve noticed a growing awareness of mental health issues among many people. It’s positive that more individuals are familiar with terms like depression, anxiety and panic attacks. This increased awareness reflects a greater understanding of the importance of mental health. However, in my regular conversations about mental health, I’ve observed a trend worth noting.

Some individuals are starting to categorise everyday challenges as mental health issues, associating themselves, friends, or family with general mental health problems. Particularly, there seems to be a rise in self-diagnosis or labelling others with conditions such as anxiety or depression. While it’s true that the modern, often stressful world can make people more susceptible to mental health problems, it’s crucial not to label someone without a proper diagnosis. The growing prevalence of self-diagnosis is a cause for concern.

On the internet, people are actively searching for information related to mental health, indicating an increased awareness. While this is positive, the real question is the depth of knowledge they’ve gained. Many individuals are becoming acquainted with various mental health concepts, but it’s essential to consider how well they truly understand these issues.

Is it fair to claim expertise in something simply because we’ve read about it? Those who have worked professionally in various fields would likely agree that having knowledge or education isn’t sufficient to be considered an expert. Practical experience is crucial before offering opinions. This holds true, especially in the context of mental health awareness.

When we search for mental health information online, it’s easy to find details about symptoms, self-diagnosis and potential treatments. Yet, can we confidently say we can accurately diagnose ourselves solely based on internet findings? Shouldn’t we exercise caution and seek more certainty?

Discussing mental health remains a sensitive subject for many. It can be challenging for people to share what they’re going through, and when they do, it’s often with those close to them. Opening up and having conversations about mental health are crucial steps in maintaining well-being. When someone confides in us, it’s vital that we listen wholeheartedly.

However, the abundance of internet content on mental health issues has a downside. It can make us think we understand what someone is experiencing, leading us to offer advice based on what we’ve read or heard. This is where the term “pseudopsychologist” comes in—a person who positions themselves as a psychologist or psychological expert without the necessary qualifications, training, or credentials. They might share advice or opinions about psychological matters, but their knowledge lacks a foundation in legitimate psychological principles or evidence-based methods. As more people become familiar with psychological concepts, it’s essential to be aware of this trend.

The conflict arises here. On the one hand, it’s excellent that people are becoming more aware of mental health. However, there’s a risk of individuals offering advice based on personal experiences. Managing this challenge is tricky because the methods used by psychologists or counsellors are tailored to each person’s unique circumstances. Even if the symptoms seem similar, people’s situations can be vastly different.

It’s crucial to remember that professional counsellors or psychologists don’t provide advice. Instead, they tailor their approaches to the individual needs of each client.

In the end, despite feeling well-informed about a mental health issue from reading or observing, it’s wise to seek a professional second opinion if you suspect you may be experiencing it. Avoid giving advice when unsure because everyone’s situation is unique. When reaching out for support, consider professional help, especially if you suspect a mental health problem. Friends and family are supportive, but professionals can offer specialised assistance.