Improving Mental Health Through the Internet
Location
SU-003
Department
Communication, Media, and Theatre
Abstract
In recent years, researchers and the popular press have discussed the negative impacts of the Internet on mental health. This presentation does not deny the majority of those claims, but it does extend that research and discourse to examine the many ways that the Internet can also positively impact those dealing with their mental health issues. New social media and web platforms necessitate more extensive and up-to-date research as the Internet now provides free, quick resources for identifying and treating mental illness. Additionally, many websites and social networks provide excellent settings for people struggling with mental health to find support communities and to increase their chances of recovery or improve treatment. This presentation combines a review of scholarly literature as well as information synthesized from popular press articles and first-hand experience. This presentation will cover the myriad of positive ways the internet is being used to identify and improve mental health issues, highlight alternate perspectives to popular discussions about self- diagnosing online, and call for further studies to determine accurate data regarding the validity of self-diagnoses. Overall, this presentation explores how it is possible to use the Internet as a productive tool for mental health information and community.
Faculty Sponsor
Shayne Pepper, Northeastern Illinois University
Improving Mental Health Through the Internet
SU-003
In recent years, researchers and the popular press have discussed the negative impacts of the Internet on mental health. This presentation does not deny the majority of those claims, but it does extend that research and discourse to examine the many ways that the Internet can also positively impact those dealing with their mental health issues. New social media and web platforms necessitate more extensive and up-to-date research as the Internet now provides free, quick resources for identifying and treating mental illness. Additionally, many websites and social networks provide excellent settings for people struggling with mental health to find support communities and to increase their chances of recovery or improve treatment. This presentation combines a review of scholarly literature as well as information synthesized from popular press articles and first-hand experience. This presentation will cover the myriad of positive ways the internet is being used to identify and improve mental health issues, highlight alternate perspectives to popular discussions about self- diagnosing online, and call for further studies to determine accurate data regarding the validity of self-diagnoses. Overall, this presentation explores how it is possible to use the Internet as a productive tool for mental health information and community.