The Role of TikTok in Mental Health Support: Analyzing the Efficacy and Risks of Mental Health Content

Abstract

This study investigated the effectiveness of mental health content on TikTok, focusing on engagement, algorithm-driven recommendations, and gender-based differences in content effectiveness. Utilizing a quantitative research design, the study analyzed data from 350 university students in Punjab, Pakistan. The research aimed to evaluate how engagement with TikTok's mental health content correlates with user satisfaction and perceived mental health improvements. Statistical analyses, including t-tests, correlation, and regression, revealed significant findings: higher engagement with mental health content was positively associated with self-reported mental health benefits (Pearson r = 0.65, p < 0.001), and TikTok’s algorithm-driven recommendations significantly enhanced user satisfaction (B = 0.55, β = 0.62, p < 0.001). Gender differences were notably observed, with females finding emotional support content more effective (M = 4.35, SD = 0.85) compared to males, who preferred practical solutions (M = 3.90, SD = 0.92), supported by a t-value of 4.45 (p < 0.001). These results underscore the importance of tailoring mental health content to gender-specific preferences and optimizing algorithm-driven recommendations to enhance the effectiveness of digital mental health resources on platforms like TikTok.