A recent survey has highlighted the growing trend of individuals turning to social media platforms for health information, raising concerns about the accuracy of such content and its impact on health anxiety. The Bupa Wellbeing Index 2026, which surveyed 8,000 people in the United Kingdom, found that 25% of respondents use YouTube and 20% rely on TikTok as sources for health-related advice. Despite this, one in five participants believe influencers provide more current health information than doctors, even though 38% have encountered misleading health content online.
Similar patterns have been noted internationally. In the United States, Pew Research Center surveys indicate that 40% of adults, including half of those under 50, regularly seek health advice through social media influencers and podcasts. This underscores the influence social media holds as a channel for health information, but also the challenges it presents.
Dr Stephanie Hicks, a general practitioner specialising in mental health, acknowledges the benefits and risks of using social media for health advice. She notes that social media can effectively reach large audiences, especially younger people, and many qualified medical professionals share useful information on these platforms. However, Dr Hicks cautions that the open nature of social media allows anyone to publish content regardless of accuracy, leading to confusion and potential misinformation.
Another concern raised is the tendency of social media algorithms to prioritize sensational or emotionally charged content, which often lacks scientific backing but attracts significant attention. This dynamic can contribute to health anxiety, defined by Dr Hicks as the persistent worry and compulsive checking of one’s health that remains unresolved by reassurance. She explains how exposure to anecdotal stories of severe health outcomes online can exacerbate such anxiety, possibly creating a cycle that reinforces individuals’ fears.
To mitigate these risks, Dr Hicks offers several recommendations for managing health information consumption on social media. Limiting exposure to health content and unfollowing accounts that provoke anxiety can help reduce stress. She also encourages skepticism toward sources, advising users to consider the credentials of those sharing advice and to be wary of content promoting products or miraculous cures without scientific evidence.
Fact-checking through reputable websites such as the National Health Service (NHS) or established health organisations is advised over relying solely on social media posts. For persistent or severe symptoms, Dr Hicks stresses the importance of consulting a healthcare professional. She suggests tracking symptoms in a diary to aid medical consultations and recommends seeking medical advice promptly if symptoms are severe, while allowing mild concerns a few weeks to improve naturally.
Workplace health and wellbeing services may also offer support for individuals feeling overwhelmed by health-related worries. Overall, experts emphasize the importance of balanced engagement with health information online to make informed decisions without fueling unnecessary anxiety.