The Nook Clinic, a specialist provider of private autism and ADHD assessments for children and young people, is raising concerns about the spread of misinformation regarding neurodevelopmental conditions on social media platforms like TikTok.
With a significant surge of users seeking information on conditions like ADHD and Autism, TikTok has become a major source of information on these topics. The sheer volume of hashtag posts – #ADHD (3.3 billion views), #adhdtiktok (797.5k posts), and #autisminwomen (23.3k posts) – reflects this trend. While this fosters a sense of community and raises awareness about neurodivergent conditions, it also carries risks.
However, experts warn of the potential for misinformation on social media, despite the positive impact of increased openness surrounding mental health. Studies have shown that a significant portion of mental health content on platforms like TikTok can be inaccurate, posing a risk for individuals seeking information about complex conditions like ADHD and Autism.
Dr Selina Warlow, clinical psychologist and founder of The Nook Clinic, states, “While TikTok has played a significant role in bringing attention to conditions like ADHD and Autism, we have seen an alarming number of patients coming to us with misconceptions and incorrect self-diagnoses based on what they’ve seen on social media. Though we welcome awareness and community, it’s equally important for people to seek professional help for diagnosis and support, rather than rely solely on social media. Social media should not replace proper medical advice.”
The Nook Clinic advises individuals to be cautious of information found on social media, especially when dealing with complex medical conditions. They recommend consulting a qualified clinician for a proper diagnosis and support plan, and seeking information from reputable sources on neurodevelopmental conditions.
The Nook Clinic offers a multidisciplinary team of experienced clinicians specialising in working with children and adults with neurodevelopmental conditions. They provide private assessments, diagnosis, and support plans tailored to individual needs.
For more information about The Nook Neurodevelopmental Clinic and its services, or to schedule an expert quote or media interview with Dr Selina Warlow, please contact Isa Lavahun at isa@landedpr.com or Sim Stevens at sim@landadpr.com.
About The Nook Neurodevelopmental Clinic:
The Nook Neurodevelopmental Clinic specialises in private assessments for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) for individuals aged five and above. Their services also include 1:1 sessions to support children and adults in understanding their strengths and challenges, as well as an educational psychologist and SENCo who can work closely with schools. The Nook Clinic has close relationships with other local clinics, such as speech and language and occupational therapists, who can provide support in these areas. With clinics in Farnham, Surrey, and Esher, Greater London, the clinic is committed to providing evidence-based, compassionate care and support to children, young people, adults, and their families.
Owner and founder, Dr Selina Warlow, has a wealth of experience in the field of clinical psychology, having worked in both the NHS and The Priory. Her previous roles include working as a clinical psychologist in the NHS and at the Royal Marsden, supporting families when a parent has cancer.
To learn more about The Nook Clinic, please visit their website.
