A new study from a Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU) student researcher is offering a closer look into the potential of social media in reducing barriers to mental health supports.
Hailey Russell, a Bachelor of Arts, Major in Psychology graduate, surveyed 176 participants to examine their mental health histories, social media habits and how they interact with mental health-related content.
“There are a lot of negative connotations surrounding social media and its impact on mental health,” says Russell. “I wanted to see if there was some usefulness to this content being out there.”
Her honours thesis, supported by a KPU Student Research and Innovation Grant and supervised by instructor Dr. Jocelyn Lymburner, sheds light on emerging patterns of behaviour. It explores both active searches for support and passive engagement with mental health posts in digital spaces.
“Mental health issues are increasingly common, yet most people experiencing stress or mental illness do not receive the care they need,” says Lymburner. “Social media has the potential to reduce barriers by providing information, promoting healthy coping strategies, challenging stigma and encouraging help-seeking.”
Findings of the study, which has not been peer reviewed or published, provide insight into how online platforms are being used, and by whom.
“It was really interesting to see that there is a difference between searching and viewing mental health content,” says Russell. “Viewing is a newer variable and hasn’t been studied as much, so that stood out to me.”
The study found that individuals with higher self-reported depression scores and a greater belief in the credibility of social media were more likely to search for mental health content. In contrast, viewing content was more common among women and participants who had received a professional mental health diagnosis.
The project also highlighted generational trends. Younger users were more likely to search for mental health content, while older participants were less inclined to do so. Financial accessibility also plays a role. Traditional therapy can be costly, while social media offers a free and immediate, if imperfect, alternative.
“One of the barriers to accessing mental health care is the cost, which is why people are turning to alternative resources,” says Russell. “Social media is free and easily accessible in a way traditional therapy is not.”
Russell's study did not focus on the quality or accuracy of mental health content, but rather on user engagement. While acknowledging the risk of misinformation, she emphasizes the value of community and connection that social platforms can provide.
The study raises important questions about the future of mental health care and how social and digital tools may complement, but not replace, professional support.
“There is something that is lost when you take away the face-to-face interaction in therapy,” says Russell. “Therapy and counselling is a very human thing. It can't really be replicated by using artificial intelligence or social media as a private diary.”
KPU offers students the choice between a Bachelor of Arts or a Bachelor of Science degree in psychology, including the Bachelor of Arts in Human Behaviour and Applied Psychology — a program tailored for students interested in careers outside of care.