LONDON: TikTok has announced the launch of a mental well-being campaign to build what it describes as “a supportive space where the community feels empowered to express themselves authentically.”
The Chinese social media platform aims to raise awareness about mental health topics through a host of in-app activations and a dedicated #EndTheStigma hashtag.
“TikTok has always been a place to celebrate entertainment, from dances and songs to adorable animals and comedy, and ultimately spark joy within their global community. But TikTok is also a place where people come to share their unique personal stories, including those around mental health and well-being,” the company said in a statement on Tuesday.
“TikTok is here to support their community as they share their experiences and helpful resources and forge new, meaningful connections across the platform to help #EndTheStigma.”
As part of the campaign, TikTok offers resources directly accessible on the platform, where users can learn about mental health-related issues, and connect with community advocates and organizations.
The platform plans to host live sessions with mental health advocates, as well as launch videos to promote positive conversations and end the stigma surrounding mental health.
“The #EndTheStigma hashtag aims to bring the community together to ensure that everyone has the resources they need to support their mental well-being,” the statement said.
“From checking in on one another, to sharing their own personal journeys, the campaign demonstrates TikTok’s commitment to a world where everyone has a support system to thrive, particularly in the digital age.”
The campaign represents a step forward for social media companies, which are often accused of failing to raise awareness about mental health problems and their consequences on their platform.
Recently, a MENA Mental Health Day survey conducted by YouGov found that 59 percent of Gen Z respondents said they were “feeling uncomfortable talking openly about their mental health for fear of offending friends and family.”
In 2018, a British study found that social media use can affect users’ physical health, and was linked to poor sleep, which is associated with depression, memory loss and low academic performance.
