Implications of Online Self-Diagnosis in Psychiatry

Pharmacopsychiatry 2024; 57: 45-52 DOI: 10.1055/a-2268-5441Online self-diagnosis of psychiatric disorders by the general public is
increasing. The reasons for the increase include the expansion of Internet
technologies and the use of social media, the rapid growth of direct-to-consumer
e-commerce in healthcare, and the increased emphasis on patient involvement in
decision making. The publicity given to artificial intelligence (AI) has also
contributed to the increased use of online screening tools by the general
public. This paper aims to review factors contributing to the expansion of
online self-diagnosis by the general public, and discuss both the risks and
benefits of online self-diagnosis of psychiatric disorders. A narrative review
was performed with examples obtained from the scientific literature and
commercial articles written for the general public. Online self-diagnosis of
psychiatric disorders is growing rapidly. Some people with a positive result on
a screening tool will seek professional help. However, there are many potential
risks for patients who self-diagnose, including an incorrect or dangerous
diagnosis, increased patient anxiety about the diagnosis, obtaining unfiltered
advice on social media, using the self-diagnosis to self-treat, including online
purchase of medications without a prescription, a...

Source: Pharmacopsychiatry - March 12, 2024 Category: Psychiatry Authors: Monteith, Scott Glenn, Tasha Geddes, John R. Whybrow, Peter C. Achtyes, Eric D. Bauer, Michael Tags: Review Source Type: research