I don’t use TikTok because I am a very biased person and I assume that it is toxic and made exclusively for dumb, easily manipulated people. But catch me if you can, I continue to have Facebook. Although I don’t post anymore, I haven’t managed to quit scrolling every once in a while.

Now, on Facebook there are reels that are re-posted from TikTok, which is how I have come to learn about TikTok’s toxicity. (Why is it named TikTok and not Toxic?)

Just like the rest of the internet, I let the scrolling bring me to a point where I thought I might have ADHD, depression, anxiety, childhood trauma and many more mental health issues with names I can’t remember... Wait, but am I not just brilliant but emotional, occasionally bothered by PMS... a typical woman?

TikTok has been a cultural phenomenon since its launch, with its short-form videos and algorithm that seems to know what you want before you even do. However, there is a disturbing trend among some TikTokers who are cashing in on mental health issues. It’s important to acknowledge that mental health issues are serious and can have a profound impact on a person’s life. To trivialize these issues for likes and views is irresponsible and damaging. (And disgusting.)

It’s also worth noting that many of these TikTokers are young and inexperienced. They may not fully understand the seriousness of mental health issues and the impact of their matter-of-fact videos.

TikTokers who exploit mental health issues for likes, views, and profit should be ashamed. Mental health is not a trend or a commodity, it’s a serious issue that requires trained professionals and genuine care.

And, believe it or not, most of us are stronger and more resilient than we think we are. What we think, we become. If you are well, don’t let TikTok and its algorithm convince you otherwise.