A Study on the Impact of Self-diagnosis of Mental Health among College Going Students in Chennai

Abstract

Understanding the intricate and multifaceted impacts of self-diagnosis on the mental well-being of college students is essential. Self-diagnosis refers to the process wherein individuals assess and identify their own mental health issues without professional verification . Many college students resort to self-diagnosis as a method to comprehend and address their mental health challenges, facilitated by the plenty of online resources and the availability of self-help materials. While self-diagnosis may offer a sense of empowerment and self-reliance, it harbors substantial risks and repercussions for students' mental health. Primarily, self-diagnosis increases the likelihood of misinterpreting symptoms and misidentifying conditions, potentially leading to incorrect self-management strategies. Lacking expertise in mental health, students might misinterpret ordinary stress or mood fluctuations as indications of severe disorders, causing unnecessary distress and anxiety. Furthermore, self-diagnosis continues stigma and misconceptions surrounding mental illness, as individuals often rely on incomplete information and assumptions to characterize their experiences. Consequently, students who engage in self-diagnosis may encounter barriers in seeking timely and appropriate professional assistance, delaying evaluation and treatment and aggravating their symptoms. Moreover, the tendency for self-diagnosis fosters a culture of self-reliance and isolation among college students. Deprived of professional guidance, individuals may resort to self-medication or alternative therapies, risking adverse outcomes. Additionally, the struggle to articulate emotions and establish connections with peers undergoing similar challenges exacerbates feelings of alienation and neglect among self-diagnosed individuals. The ramifications of self-diagnosis extend beyond individual well-being, implicating systemic shortcomings within educational institutions. Colleges and universities often lack adequate resources and support services to address students' mental health needs, fostering an environment conducive to self-diagnosis. Moreover, factors such as peer pressure, financial constraints, and academic pressures cultivate a competitive culture that reinforces students' inclination toward self-diagnosis and self-management. To lessen the adverse effects of self-diagnosis, educational institutions must prioritize awareness, destigmatize help-seeking behaviors, and enhance access to professional mental health services. By fostering a supportive environment that encourages open dialogue and proactive intervention, colleges and universities can better meet the mental health needs of their students and reduce the pervasive impact of self-diagnosis.