Instagram and mental health

[Allthegoodusernamesaregonesad]

I have mh issues that I'm working on. I recently joined Instagram and started following people friends had been following etc. Aibu in saying that some accounts use MH to get more followers. I clicked on an account 🦊 and he was talking about he had had MH issues in the past etc. All good but then a few posts later is a link to a podcast/blog thing he is on about MH. It got me thinking is he just talking about his MH or is he using it to exploit his followers into downloading his podcast. He also has a girlfriend who is on Instagram. Just before he put up his post with link to the MH podcast, she posted about her MH.

I'm not saying that they don't have MH issues but they do seem to only post about them when they need to promote something

It sounds like you are looking in the wrong places for support. I use Instagram to look at photos of cute dogs.

I've blocked the accounts now but it just got me thinking that's all.

I can only use insta when I’m well. When I’m unwell I can’t even go on Facebook. You can see the patterns on my timelines of when I’ve been unwell! It’s not even the body image stuff cos that doesn’t bother me it’s just the general way people are and people who hide behind computer screens and think they’re invincible to other people’s feelings. I had to leave babycentre for that exact reasoning.. even though most people were so lovely. Tread carefully with social media and mh problems is my advice x

Yes. MH is used by some to gain more followers, by looking more authentic or trying to connect. Some are building businesses on the back of that and profiting on others vulnerabilities. No different to the diet or beauty cultures that some instagrammers create and exploit.

I personally am beginning to tire of all, BUT there are some really great resources there you just need the time to search and resilience to be able to cut through some of the shiny accounts to find ones that are authentic and resonate with you. I personally can’t be arsed anymore though Everyone seems be selling something!

I think when you consider Instagram, you have to bear in mind it's a form of media. Unless they're you're real life friend, assume they're selling you something.