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Debating Communities and Networks XVI

TikTok and the Paradox of Addiction: its Potential as a Tool for Healing

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Yana_Chua

Abstract
TikTok has faced criticism for promoting compulsive use through endless content loops, keeping users hooked and creating a potentially harmful digital environment. However, this paper argues that TikTok is not entirely bad. Despite its addictive design, TikTok can offer support for those who are healing from addiction or mental health struggles. This paper explores how intentional use helps users share recovery journeys and build uplifting communities.

TikTok has quickly ascended to become one of the most influential social media platforms in history with over 1.5 billion monthly active users (Schukow et al., 2022). Other apps simply cannot measure up to TikTok’ level of popularity which attracts a global audience with its infinite stream of compact and meticulously tailored videos. Despite how the platform grows and gains its popularity, so does the rise in concerns regarding its potential for addiction (Virós-Martín et al., 2024). It is true that it is designed for constant engagement, as many users spend prolonged periods swiping through content and it doesn’t take long to lose track of time. Just by the act of mindlessly scrolling, an entire day has vanished. While the addictive nature of TikTok is widely acknowledged, it also serves as a platform where users find connection, support and recovery opportunities. The platform’s dual nature is rarely discussed. Many users find themselves unable to live without it. For instance, when TikTok faced potential bans in the United States, it triggered an intense public reaction. Global media coverage quickly highlighted how deeply integrated the app had become in users’ daily lives, emphasizing the significant emotional impact the ban could cause (Lowe, 2024).

Moving beyond the negative effects, TikTok is not entirely harmful. It serves as a space where individuals seek support and is a platform for users to connect, offering spaces of recovery, resilience and personal growth by communities who show their authentic, vulnerable self by sharing personal experiences and providing mutual support, allowing them to heal and finding their self-worth through shared knowledge and useful information that is provided by the community (Gallagher, 2021). TikTok illustrates a complex duality: it is both a source of social media addiction, driven by attention capturing features; and a platform that creates opportunities for users to connect and practice healthy personal habits. This centered on overcoming substance abuse, mental health challenges or digital exhaustion.

TikTok serves as a catalyst for users to be motivated to take control of their life and start on their personal healing journey. These online communities help users to take real life actions and influence them to reconnect with physical world activities. This paper argues that TikTok is not always bad. Despite their role in promoting addictive behaviors, they also allow users to build supportive communities to help people with healing and develop personal growth. For instance, by sharing emotional recovery journeys and finding balance in life.

TikTok and Social Media Addiction
TikTok’s ability to remain at the top tier social media is remarkable. It has kept it relevant and widely used over the years, considering one of the most powerful and addictive platforms (Van Nguyen & Tran, 2024). The platform capitalizes on neurochemical responses, particularly targeting dopamine release to maintain the user’s attention. Instead of building a collective, solidaristic community, TikTok is more focused on personal expression which illustrates networked individualism. The endless consumption of short videos that are specifically curated according to user’s interest in their For You Page (FYP), often provides a sense of personalization and emotional validation drawing them deeper into the app. It stimulates the active areas in the brain like ventral tegmental area (VTA), and the prefrontal cortex which is famously known to help brain development. These regions release chemicals like dopamine which create a sense of pleasure (Kalló et al., 2022). This leads to mindless scrolling and compulsive usage which can negatively affect anyone, especially young adults causing potential distress as it can disrupt the cultivation of healthy habits during crucial development period (Kumar et al., 2024).

During adolescence, the dopamine system is highly active which can make rewarding- seeking behavior more intense compared to other life stages. With the app’s algorithm manipulation, it quietly shapes user behavior and perception, which can further amplify toxic content or discriminatory stereotypes. The critiques of TikTok’s design goes beyond the platform itself, it reflects a broader societal and economic problems. The platform’s business models rely on extracting user data to fuel targeted advertising, treating it as a monetizable resource using algorithms (Zhang & Liu, 2021). Through its design, users are drawn into partaking in the cycle by exposed into rewarding virality and user engagement without clear consent- thus, strengthens the grip of data capitalism.

TikTok also operates within surveillance capitalism, where users interact through likes, comments, views, and reposts which are all considered as data collection which is then used as personalized content for advertisement purposes (Zuboff, 2019). While it seems like users are engaging for their own benefit for entertainment, they are not aware it is contributing to the platforms’ profits without any financial rewards considering as “free digital labor”. Ultimately, the platform is intentionally designed to be addictive, it harms users while simultaneously generating immense value for the platform.

Healing Through TikTok
Despite its well-documented addictive design, TikTok is also important in supporting individuals battling addiction and mental health struggles providing community who priorities healing and recovery. A community is defined as a collective group of individuals who share the same interest values or experiences, particularly have the same goals where they could share their sense of belonging with one another. It supports their efforts to exchange knowledge, advice and build a safe space to grow as a group (Duprow, 2024). Human beings are inherently social creatures, numerous psychological studies have shown that strong social bonds are essential for emotional wellbeing, social connection is essential, and we have depended on social bonds as they play a critical role in survival (Clark, 1990).

Digital communities play a big role when it comes to areas of self-healing. Being a part of a community not only reduces the feeling of isolation instead, providing them with a sense of identity and purpose as well as encouraging healthier habits and emotional support. Individuals who are going through difficult recovery journey often turn to TikTok to connect with others, as it makes them feel seen and supported. Content creators who focus on healing related topics often include links in their bio to provide access to community blogs or support groups, encouraging more interaction and peer support within the community. These communities often include hashtags in their content to foster connection and visibility. According to recent studies, tags like #recovery with 2.5 billion views and #addiction with 1.1 billion views indicating that a significant number of users engage with content related to healing, support and addiction recovery (Russell et al., 2021). Further commonly used hashtags to this day include #mentalhealth, #soberity, #hopetok which reflect how active the platform is in conversations around the topic of recovery and mental health (Johnson, 2025).

These hashtags allow users to access motivational content, recovery tops and relatable personal stories, it somehow functions like community markers, helping individuals to come together as a community discovering others who face similar experiences. It is true that TikTok is criticized for fueling the attention economy, its also enables users to share and document their personal journeys through self expression (Barta & Andalibi, 2021). These real life changes and honest reflections can be an act of therapy, transforming the platform into safe space where the community feels inspired to adopt positive habits, seek therapy and following the footsteps of other creators who promote positive habits. TikTok, therefore creates a ripple effect, where the positive actions of one can inspire many leading to a digital culture which centers around self-improvement and well being.

Power of Community on TikTok
A well known TikTok creator Elyse Myers is a true testimony of defining voice on TikTok. Through her content, it is clear that the creator centers herself around mental health, self worth and anxiety fostering a supportive digital community around self healing and the wellbeing of others (According to the creators TikTok account). With millions of followers on TikTok, she shares her raw experience struggling with mental health disorders like ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder), which resonates deeply with her audiences by acknowledging struggles that are frequently overlooked in the offline world. Myers uses authentic story telling method by sharing her personal journey and encouraging her audience to open up and not be afraid of sharing their stories. For instance, she created a peer support network by creating videos called “100 hard shell tacos” encouraging her followers to share their experiences in the comment which often makes them feel better and heard (Gibson, 2023). Her deep passion for mental health and her strong sense of empathy helped many people recover from struggles they face internally and feel less isolated in their own battles. With the help of TikTok’s algorithm, Elyse’s content reaches a larger audience as it matches some user’s interests through the For You Page (FYP) ensuring that it reaches the right audience. TikTok’s interactive features such as duets, stitches and video replies enable two-way communication between the audience and the creator, which allows them to connect on a personal level. By merging entertainment with advocacy, Myers proves that TikTok can be more than just an app, it is a tool for healing (Shamsuddin et al., 2023).

While individual creators play a big role in promoting self awareness, the collective nature of TikTok’s communities is crucial for one’s healing journey. The power of the platform could build communities that span across geographical boundaries, connecting all ethnicities by sharing knowledge and understanding of each other. For individuals who lack support in their offline lives, these digital communities may be the only place where they can express themselves and find the validation that they need.

According to a study in 2023, 81% of the highest performing recovery videos focused on communal support, with comment sections becoming small scale support group. This real time encouragement and advice is what makes these communities powerful. For example, TikTok live streaming features allow creators to host real time Question and Answer sessions, or even guided meditations allowing communities to come together and engage in community driven healing. Comments like “This meditation saved me from a panic attack-thank you!” (comment under @dralangoodwin’s guided breathing video) and “Your affirmations helped me quit negative self-talk after years of struggling” (comment under @healingvibes2222’s post) showcasing the platform’s therapeutic impact. These communities create safe spaces for vulnerability, which is often ignored in real life situations. Individuals who have gone through traumatic events have the freedom of speech to openly discuss their stories. Furthermore, with TikTok’s wide range of content creators, it offers different healing techniques and ways which allow users to find the best method that suits them, promoting inclusivity and allowing more people to join the community.

TikTok remains complex as it is often critiqued for its addictive nature. Although it is true that TikTok is able to manipulate its algorithm to maximise its user’s attention spend and contributing to addictive behaviour. However, the platform offers a space for healing, growth and community connection. Through constant support provided by the communities, authentic personal development and mental health information, TikTok enables users to find a safe place to share their struggles and take action into working on their own personal wellbeing. Therefore, when used with intention TikTok can be used as a tool that provides hope and support to communities. Through self-improvement content on the platform, it creates a safe space for individual to be vulnerable and not only be accepted but also encouraged. Fostering resilience and mental health awareness encouraging users to prioritize self reflection and emotional wellbeing.

References
Schukow, C. P., Herman, M., & Kowalski, P. (2022). TikTok: The new “Social Media frontier” in pathology? Advances in Anatomic Pathology, 29(5), 324–325. https://doi.org/10.1097/pap.0000000000000350


Virós-Martín, C., Montaña-Blasco, M., & Jiménez-Morales, M. (2024). Can’t stop scrolling! Adolescents’ patterns of TikTok use and digital well-being self-perception. Humanities and Social Sciences Communications, 11(1). https://doi.org/10.1057/s41599-024-03984-5


Lowe, J. (2024). The future of TikTok in the United States. http://hdl.handle.net/20.500.12648/16191


Gallagher, L. (2021). Welcome to AnxietyTok: An empirical review of peer support for individuals living with mental illness on social networking site TikTok. https://puncta.journals.villanova.edu/index.php/veritas/article/view/2641


Van Nguyen, T. T., & Tran, T. T. M. (2024). Exploring Student’s perspectives and practices: Using TikTok in the context of sophomore EFL speaking 4 learning at Van Lang University. International Journal of TESOL & Education, 4(2), 160–182. https://doi.org/10.54855/ijte.24429


Kalló, I., Omrani, A., Meye, F. J., De Jong, H., Liposits, Z., & Adan, R. a. H. (2022). Characterization of orexin input to dopamine neurons of the ventral tegmental area projecting to the medial prefrontal cortex and shell of nucleus accumbens. Brain Structure and Function, 227(3), 1083–1098. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00429-021-02449-8


Kumar, P. C. P., Kishor, M., Raj, A. A., Murugappan, M., & Palaniswamy, D. S. (2024). Scrolling and stress: Exploring internet usage for social media and psychological distress in young adults. Annals of Indian Psychiatry. https://doi.org/10.4103/aip.aip_190_23


Rogowska, A. M., & Cincio, A. (2024). Procrastination Mediates the Relationship between Problematic TikTok Use and Depression among Young Adults. Journal of Clinical Medicine, 13(5), 1247. https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13051247


Zhang, M., & Liu, Y. (2021). A commentary of TikTok recommendation algorithms in MIT Technology Review 2021. Fundamental Research, 1(6), 846–847. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fmre.2021.11.015


Zuboff, S. (2019). Surveillance capitalism and the challenge of collective action. New Labor Forum, 28(1), 10–29. https://doi.org/10.1177/1095796018819461
DUPROW, C. L. (2024). K-12 Teachers’ Experiences Using Social Media for Professional Development: A Qualitative Narrative Inquiry – ProQuest. Proquest.com. https://www.proquest.com/docview/2958189591?pq-origsite=gscholar&fromopenview=true&sourcetype=Dissertations%20&%20Theses


Clark, M. E. (1990). Meaningful social bonding as a universal human need. In Palgrave Macmillan UK eBooks (pp. 34–59). https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-349-21000-8_3


Russell, A. M., Bergman, B. G., Colditz, J. B., Kelly, J. F., Milaham, P. J., & Massey, P. M. (2021). Using TikTok in recovery from substance use disorder. Drug and Alcohol Dependence, 229, 109147. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2021.109147


Johnson, K. O. (2025). FIRST GLASS OF WINE IN 8 MONTHS!: AN EXAMINATION OF SOBER CURIOUS COMMUNITIES ON TIKTOK. AoIR Selected Papers of Internet Research. https://doi.org/10.5210/spir.v2024i0.14025


Barta, K., & Andalibi, N. (2021). Constructing authenticity on TikTok: social norms and social support on the “Fun” platform. Proceedings of the ACM on Human-Computer Interaction, 5(CSCW2), 1–29. https://doi.org/10.1145/3479574


Shamsuddin, C. M., Musa, N. C., Saad, S. M., & Rizal, N. E. H. M. (2023). #healing as a Form of Expression among Malaysian TikTokers: Fostering Connections. 3L the Southeast Asian Journal of English Language Studies, 29(4), 99–117. https://doi.org/10.17576/3l-2023-2904-07


Klug, D., Qin, Y., Evans, M., & Kaufman, G. (2021). Trick and Please. A Mixed-Method Study On User Assumptions About the TikTok Algorithm. Trick and Please. A Mixed-Method Study on User Assumptions  About the TikTok Algorith, 84–92. https://doi.org/10.1145/3447535.3462512

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32 responses to “TikTok and the Paradox of Addiction: its Potential as a Tool for Healing”

  1. Khushi Avatar
    Khushi

    Hi Yana,

    This paper presents a great perspective and successfully examines TikTok’s dual aspects which transition from addiction-based engagements to supportive spaces. The paper demonstrates a smooth transition between its psychological investigation about the platform and its findings on community development. The academic sources you employed enhance the paper’s credibility while the mention of Elyse Myers as an example strengthens reader engagement with personal details.

    Your analysis is well balanced and the shortcomings of TikTok with its advantageous side without adopting a definitive stance which displays mature and insightful understanding. The analysis successfully demonstrates the ability of digital tools to establish support networks by using hashtag and algorithm research which integrates with your evaluation of community comments and live features that presents TikTok’s interactive elements.

    I think the exploration of how the platform should dedicate intentional features to actively support healing networks should be thought of instead of relying on spontaneous development by its users. TikTok could establish specific mental health-oriented tools along with health partnerships to assist users in their healing process. Researching this topic could enhance your end conclusion by presenting practical guidelines for the ethical development of social platforms.

    Overall I truly enjoyed your perspective through this paper 🙂

    1. Yana_Chua Avatar
      Yana_Chua

      Hi Kushi,
      Thank you so much for your kind and insightful feedback. I really appreciate you taking the time to read my paper so thoroughly. I’m glad to hear that the structure and examples, like Elyse Myers, resonated with you and helped make the topic more engaging.

      Your suggestion about TikTok taking a more intentional role in supporting mental health is such a great point. I agree that integrating dedicated features or partnerships with health professionals could strengthen the platform’s impact and responsibility in this area. That’s definitely something I’d like to explore further, possibly as a continuation of this research.

      Thanks again for your thoughtful comments—they truly mean a lot! 😊

  2. Jacinta Robless Avatar
    Jacinta Robless

    Hi Yana,

    The controversy of Tik Tok as a beneficial platform is something I’m personally interested in, as I often find myself debating whether I should delete the app or continue to endlessly scroll during my free time. I have found that apps like Tik Tok with functions purposely included to lure viewers in to promote addiction to screen time, are existing more as technology advances. I think creating awareness around the benefits of these platforms and highlighting established mental health online communities are important, as online users need these accessible communities for support tools, whilst navigating this digital age. From personal experience, I’ve found that sometimes using Tik Tok as a search engine rather then internet platforms, for discovering relatable and informative mental health content, has proved more effective for finding authentic resonating content, which educates and offers emotional support. I understand that Tik Tok’s search engine’s capabilities are limited to existing content posted on the platform, however I was still curious if you think Tik Tok’s search engine navigates a user looking for mental health resources and communities easier then regular existing internet platforms?

    Well done on a well researched and informative analysis on a trending controversial topic. Was a fascinating read!

    1. Yana_Chua Avatar
      Yana_Chua

      Thank you so much for your kind words! I really appreciate you sharing your personal perspective—it’s such a relatable experience. I completely agree that TikTok can feel like a double-edged sword. On one hand, the app’s algorithm definitely encourages excessive screen time, but on the other hand, I’ve also found it incredibly helpful for discovering mental health content that feels real and personal.

      I think you raise a really important point about the value of accessible support communities online which I have missed.Nowadays, especially for young people, navigating this fast-paced digital world is quite a journey, there are truly ups and downs. While TikTok’s search engine is limited to what’s already uploaded, I do think its ability to surface raw, relatable content quickly makes it more user-friendly for emotional support than traditional search engines, which can feel impersonal or overwhelming.

      It’s such an ongoing debate—whether to delete or stay on social media, but I think the key is being intentional about how we use it. Thank you again for your time and insight <3

  3. Guna Avatar
    Guna

    This is a beautifully written and insightful paper. I really appreciated how you balanced the critical discussion of TikTok’s addictive design with a more compassionate exploration of its potential for healing and connection. Your use of real data, like the popularity of hashtags such as #recovery and #mentalhealth, helped ground your argument in a way that felt both powerful and relevant.

    I especially connected with your point about how TikTok can act as a digital safe space for those who lack support in their offline lives. I’ve personally seen how creators like Elyse Myers can foster genuine moments of comfort and solidarity, sometimes a short, honest video can feel more supportive than real-life conversations. It’s a reminder that healing isn’t always linear, and community can exist in unexpected forms.
    QUESTION :
    Do you think TikTok’s healing potential could be amplified if the platform made more intentional design changes, like promoting wellness-focused content or giving creators tools to build safer, more supportive spaces?

    1. Yana_Chua Avatar
      Yana_Chua

      Hey Guna!
      thank you so much for your kind words and taking time to read my paper ! I really wanted to highlight that duality of TikTok, although it is fairly addictive, but there’s also this beautiful human side that often gets overlooked. I’m so glad the hashtag data and Elyse Myers example resonated with you , sometimes a 30-second video can feel more comforting than an hour-long talk in real life.
      To your question, absolutely! I do think TikTok has the potential to intentionally nurture healing spaces if it chose to. If the platform prioritized wellness-focused content or gave creators more tools (like safe space tags, mental health resource links, or curated FYPs for vulnerable users), it could really amplify that sense of community and safety. Right now, it’s more accidental, but with intentional design, the impact could be transformative. Thank you for asking such a powerful question!

  4. Aparna Avatar
    Aparna

    Hi Yana,

    Your paper is an insightful and compelling contribution to the topic of mental health on TikTok. I really enjoyed reading it, especially the way you presented a balanced perspective on TikTok, highlighting both its addictive nature and its potential to support healing and recovery. It was refreshing to read and know about the scientific connection to addiction, particularly the explanation of how TikTok’s design engages the brain through dopamine responses. I find your discussion around community- building and intentional use very relevant, especially in showing how the platform can build connection among people dealing with mental health and addiction issues. The example of Elyse Myers clearly illustrates the role of authenticity and storytelling in creating supportive online environments. So I was wondering, how do TikTok’s specific features, such as duets or stitches, influence the depth or quality of these healing communities compared to other platforms like YouTube or Instagram. I would love to know your opinion on this.

    Thank you for a thought-provoking and engaging read.

    1. Yana_Chua Avatar
      Yana_Chua

      Hey Aparna!
      Thank you so much for taking the time to read my paper and leaving such a thoughtful response, I really appreciate your kind words! I am glad that the discussion on dopamine and TikTok’s addictive design stood out to you, it’s a big part of why the platform can be both harmful and helpful at the same time.
      I really love your question about duets and stitches, i believe those features are key in deepening the sense of interaction and shared experience. Unlike Youtube or Instagram, where content tends to feel more one sided communication, TikTok’s duets and stitches invite almost all immediate participation and dialogue. They allow users to visibly respond, support, or add to someone’s story in a way that feels co-created and ongoing like a layered conversation. This can build a stronger sense of belonging and validation, especially for people navigating mental health struggles who might feel unseen elsewhere.

      Thanks again for your thoughtful engagement ! It means a alot!

  5. sophie.ashby Avatar
    sophie.ashby

    Hi Yana,

    I have to agree with your statement that TikTok is not entirely bad. Often on my for you page you see people talking about how they have been helped by the app. I believe it provides people with a space to be heard and feel as if they are not alone in times of struggle.

    I am curious though if you think over the time the app has been around, do you think it has done more harm then good to the mental health of individuals?
    Would love to hear a response.

    Overall, a really interesting topic!

    If you could please read mine that would be great as I believe it has similar topics to yours.

    https://networkconference.netstudies.org/2025/csm/5008/__trashed/

    Thankyou

    1. Yana_Chua Avatar
      Yana_Chua

      Hey Sophie!

      Thanks so much for reading and sharing your thoughts. I agree that TikTok can be a space where people feel seen and supported, especially during tough times. As for your question, I think it depends on how the platform is used. While it can definitely harm mental health through overuse and comparison, it’s also opened up valuable conversations about healing and connection. With more intentional design, I believe the good could outweigh the harm. I really appreciate your thoughtful engagement ! I will definitely check your paper out ! Thank you !!

    2. Jonathan Loba Avatar
      Jonathan Loba

      This was a really insightful and well-researched passage—great job! I appreciated how clearly you explained the neurological effects behind TikTok’s addictiveness, especially the role of dopamine and how it targets the brain’s reward systems. Your mention of networked individualism versus community-building was particularly compelling; it made me think more deeply about how TikTok encourages self-expression in a way that can sometimes isolate rather than connect. I also liked how you connected this to the risks for young adults during important developmental stages. It was both informative and thought-provoking! I’m curious—do you think there’s a way TikTok could shift toward more community-based features to help reduce the effects of compulsive use?

      1. Yana_Chua Avatar
        Yana_Chua

        Hey Jonathan!
        Thank you so much for your kind words! I’m glad you found the paper insightful. I agree that TikTok’s focus on self-expression can sometimes feel a bit isolating, even though it’s meant to bring people together. That’s a great question about adding more community-based features. I think it’s possible, like maybe creating more spaces for meaningful conversations or longer-form content that encourages deeper connections, rather than just quick, dopamine-driven scrolling. Thanks again for your thoughtful feedback, I really appreciate it! 😊

  6. Kai_Armstrong Avatar
    Kai_Armstrong

    Hi Yana,

    Your paper offers a nuanced look at TikTok’s role as both a potentially addictive platform and a supportive space for healing, which I found really refreshing. One point I’d love to explore further is the idea of community support through TikTok, particularly whether it’s always as safe or effective as it seems.

    While it’s heartening that users find comfort in sharing their recovery journeys and connecting with others through hashtags like #mentalhealth and #recovery, I think there’s a valid concern about the reliability and safety of peer support on a platform driven by algorithms. Not everyone sharing advice about mental health or addiction is qualified, and some might unintentionally or intentionally spread misinformation or promote methods that aren’t safe or based on evidence. On top of this, the constant visibility and pressure to showcase vulnerability online can sometimes lead to emotional burnout or retraumatization, both for creators and their audiences.

    Do you think TikTok’s healing communities need more safeguards (either from the platform or from within the community itself) to ensure users are receiving helpful, rather than potentially harmful, guidance? And how can we strike a balance between peer support and the need for professional help in these digital spaces?

    1. Yana_Chua Avatar
      Yana_Chua

      Hey Kai!
      Thank you so much for taking the time to read my paper ! I really appreciate how engaged you are. You raise such an important point about the double-edged nature of peer support on platforms like TikTok. While the sense of community and shared experience can be incredibly validating and healing, I absolutely agree that there’s a risk when users rely on advice that isn’t grounded in professional knowledge. This could cause misguided information and even some unfavorable behavior. The algorithm’s role in amplifying certain content , sometimes based more on engagement than accuracy definitely complicates things. I think your idea of introducing safeguards is spot-on. Maybe that looks like clearer disclaimers, stronger content moderation for harmful trends, or even promoting partnerships with certified mental health professionals to help guide the conversations in safer directions. Striking the right balance between emotional openness and clinical support is tricky, but I believe it’s possible if we approach these communities with both empathy and accountability. Thanks again for sharing your thoughts , they’ve definitely given me more to think about!

      1. Kai_Armstrong Avatar
        Kai_Armstrong

        Hi Yana,

        I appreciate how you acknowledged both the healing potential and the risks tied to peer support on TikTok. You’re absolutely right, the algorithm’s focus on engagement over accuracy complicates things, especially for vulnerable users.

        I love your idea about partnering with mental health professionals to guide these conversations. That, along with clearer disclaimers and stronger moderation, could go a long way in protecting users while still encouraging emotional openness.

        Your paper captured that balance really well!

        Cheers,
        Kai

        1. Yana_Chua Avatar
          Yana_Chua

          Hey Kai,
          I’m really glad you picked up on the balance I was trying to highlight, it’s such a complex space where emotional openness can be both healing and risky. I agree with you completely: collaboration with mental health professionals and clearer guidelines could really help foster safer communities without shutting down the conversation entirely.

          It means a lot that the message came through clearly. Thanks again for engaging so deeply with my paper!

          1. Yana_Chua Avatar
            Yana_Chua

            Just a follow up comment, can you include your paper so I could have a read as well? Thank you so much Kai!

          2. Kai_Armstrong Avatar
            Kai_Armstrong

            Of course! It was a great read – The link to my paper is below, I hope you enjoy mine as much as I enjoyed yours 🙂

            https://networkconference.netstudies.org/2025/ioa/5034/cancel-culture-and-its-effects-on-online-identity-formation/

  7. John Lim Avatar
    John Lim

    Hi Yana,

    I love the hope and optimism you have injected into your article! Definitely different from most “doom and gloom” narratives surrounding TikTok. I agree that finding a community to belong to definitely feels good and helps people heal! I also really like the way you included science in your research and that there are not only social media affordances that get people addicted but also chemical reactions in your brain! Very interesting! Which brings me to my question.

    Because teenagers are the most susceptible to dopamine responses in the brain, do you think this is grounds for scientists to enforce the idea that there should be an age limit to social media to avoid these addictive responses? Would love to hear what you think.

    1. Yana_Chua Avatar
      Yana_Chua

      Hey John,
      Thank you so much for taking the time and reading my paper, it really means a lot! I’m really glad that the hopeful tone gave you a different perspective of the platform, I definitely wanted to show that TikTok can be more than just a negative force when used with awareness! Your question about teens and how their brains react to dopamine is a really important one. Teenagers’ brains are still growing, especially in the parts that control impulses and decision-making, so it makes sense that they’re more likely to get hooked on social media.
      While setting stricter age limits might help a little, I think teaching young people how social media works and how to use it in a healthy way might be even more useful. If we can help teens understand how these apps are designed to keep them scrolling, they might be better at making smart choices for themselves. It’s definitely hard to stop the habit of endless scrolling, but as someone who’s managed to control it, I can say that learning about how social media works really helped. Once I took the time to understand the details and the intentions behind the design, I became a lot more aware. And honestly, now that I know what’s going on behind the scenes, I even feel a bit guilty when I keep scrolling or notice that the content I was exposed to are not healthy.

      It’s definitely a tricky topic, and thank you for bringing this up! Love a good brain storm always !! Thank you!

  8. Pham.Do Avatar
    Pham.Do

    Hi Yana,

    I really enjoyed your paper—it offered such a balanced and thoughtful perspective on TikTok’s risks and healing potential. I found it especially impressive how you connected psychological research with real-world digital behaviour clearly and engagingly. Your writing helped me see the platform more critically and meaningfully. I liked how you explained how TikTok’s algorithm taps into dopamine-driven behaviour, but also showed the positive side—how it can support healing and build digital communities. Your use of real examples like Elyse Myers and the role of hashtags made the arguments feel very grounded and relatable. One question for you is, what changes would you suggest to make platforms like TikTok safer and more supportive?

    I look forward to hearing from you. Thank you.
    Linh

    1. Yana_Chua Avatar
      Yana_Chua

      Hey Pham,
      Thank you so much for your kind words and for taking the time to engage so deeply with my paper, it truly means a lot! I’m really glad you found the balance between the risks and healing potential of TikTok to be clear and meaningful. It was important to me to not just critique the platform but also acknowledge the real emotional support and community it can provide, especially through relatable creators like Elyse Myers and the power of hashtags. Your question about how to make TikTok safer and more supportive is a great one. Personally, I think one change could be having more transparent content filters or emotional check-in features that pop up when someone is scrolling for long periods or when engaging with heavy content. Personally, that would make me feel ‘heard’ or ‘seen’ and it would be amazing if TikTok could include features like help support. Also, improving the visibility and support of mental health creators could help guide users toward healthier digital experiences.
      Thanks again for your thoughtful feedback, it really encourages me to keep exploring topics like this!

      1. Pham.Do Avatar
        Pham.Do

        Hi Yana, Thanks for such a thoughtful and generous response! I especially liked your point about the emotional check-in features; that idea of being “seen” by the platform itself is powerful and could shift how people engage. As many younger users could potentially be exposed to content that is not healthy for them, putting a disclaimer can also help alert them that the content may be too heavy for them.
        I’m excited to see where your work takes you next. It’s such an important area of research, and you’re bringing both insight and empathy to it.

        Thanks again for sharing it with me!
        Pham (Linh)

  9. Tayla Black Avatar
    Tayla Black

    Hi Yana!

    This paper explores a really interesting topic, it’s incredible to see how powerful digital communities can be! I’ve personally been inspired to exercise more and eat healthier because of the app, and it’s great to read a paper exploring the positive side of TikTok when there are so many doing the opposite.

    One issue I see arising because of the increased discussion of mental health online is that a lot of people seem to start self-diagnosing or sometimes there have been instances of people pretending to have conditions such as Tourette’s and DID (dissociative identity disorder) or possibly even convincing themselves that they do have these disorders when they don’t. Do you think this could be harmful to the mental health communities and the individuals themselves? And is there a way to try and stop this from happening?

    I wrote a paper on a similar topic if you would be interested in checking it out. It’s about how Twitter impacts eating disorder and self harm communities (both in positive and negative ways). https://networkconference.netstudies.org/2025/csm/6003/twitter-and-mental-health-the-effect-of-twitter-on-those-suffering-from-eating-disorders-and-self-harm/

    Awesome paper!

    1. Yana_Chua Avatar
      Yana_Chua

      Hey Tayla, I can’t help but notice how beautiful the name is! Thank you so much for reading my paper and for your kind words! I’m really happy to hear that TikTok has inspired you in such positive ways,it’s so encouraging to know that the platform is genuinely helping people make healthy choices. You’ve raised such an important and nuanced point about self-diagnosis and the rise of content related to serious mental health conditions. I absolutely agree that while these conversations can be empowering, they also come with risks. The normalization of certain behaviours without professional guidance can lead to misinformation, misrepresentation, and sometimes even the romanticization of conditions like DID or Tourette’s. This not only affects the credibility and safety of mental health spaces but can also overshadow the voices of those truly living with these experiences. I think a possible step forward could involve platforms collaborating with professionals to label or verify informative mental health content and encourage disclaimers when creators discuss personal experiences. Media literacy education for users,especially young ones would also help viewers engage more critically. What do you think about it? Would love to hear your views on this!

      Thank you again for sharing your thoughts and for linking your paper,I’m definitely going to give it a read! It sounds like we explored very connected themes!

      1. Tayla Black Avatar
        Tayla Black

        Hi Yana!

        Thank you so much 😀 Collaborating with professionals and adding disclaimers is a great idea! I agree that younger users should be more educated in media literacy, this would help with many aspects of social media use. I also think that increased accessibility to mental health services would be really helpful, but I guess this is more a societal issue than a social media one.

  10. Gracias Avatar
    Gracias

    Hi Yana,

    As an avid TikTok user, your paper is a very compelling and refreshing take on a widely criticised platform. I appreciate how your paper goes beyond the usual narrative of TikTok as merely an addictive app and instead highlights its potential for positive impact.

    It made me reflect that sometimes non-users of the platform are usually the ones who create this “reputation” on this kind of popular application, and not on how digital environments can be reimagined through purposeful engagement. I am just curious if Elyse Myers faced any challenges during her earlier days in talking about sensitive topics like addiction and recovery?

    Thanks for a good read!

    1. Yana_Chua Avatar
      Yana_Chua

      Hey Gracias,
      Thank you so much for your kind response,
      I really appreciate that you saw the effort I put into showing a more balanced perspective on TikTok. You make such a great point ,often those who aren’t active on the platform are the loudest critics, missing out on the real, nuanced experiences happening within these digital communities.
      As for Elyse Myers, yes, she did face some challenges early on, especially around vulnerability and audience perception. Sharing such personal topics like addiction and recovery naturally invites both support and criticism. But over time, her consistency and authenticity helped her build a community that values honest conversations, which is really powerful to witness. Thanks again for reading and engaging so thoughtfully!

  11. Nemat Almonjed Avatar
    Nemat Almonjed

    Hey Yana,

    I found your analysis deeply insightful because it revealed TikTok’s surprising contribution to recovery and healing communities. Your recognition of TikTok’s addictive structure alongside its transformative capabilities through conscious content production and community development was insightful.

    The examples such as Elyse Myers’ work and the support provided through comment sections breathed life into your paper. The ability of users to transform platforms criticized for superficial content into spaces for deep emotional bonds and personal development was fascinating to witness.

    I’m curious about your thoughts on platform responsibility: Should TikTok implement additional measures to support healing communities by introducing verified content tags and mental health resources or by improving moderation tools? The ultimate responsibility for creating secure spaces rests with users and creators themselves.

    Thanks for such an insightful paper, I found it both informative and uplifting!

    1. Yana_Chua Avatar
      Yana_Chua

      Hey Nemat!
      Thank you so much for your thoughtful response! I’m glad you found my analysis insightful. I agree that platforms like TikTok have incredible potential to support healing communities, even though they’re often criticized for being superficial. You bring up a great point about platform responsibility. I think introducing verified content tags and mental health resources could definitely make a difference, as it would help users find reliable support more easily. At the same time, I also believe that building a safe, supportive space requires a balance between platform policies and the efforts of creators and users themselves. It’s a partnership where both sides have a role to play.

      Thank you again for your kind words, I really appreciate you taking the time to read my paper!

  12. Milagros Wade Avatar
    Milagros Wade

    Hi Yana,

    This paper offers a thoughtful and well-balanced look at TikTok’s complex role in both perpetuating addiction and serving as a surprising space for healing and personal growth. I wasn’t previously aware of how widespread and impactful the recovery-oriented content on the platform has become. It’s encouraging to see how individuals use their vulnerability and personal stories not only to find support but to build communities of mutual aid and empowerment. The use of hashtags and links to support networks suggests an intentional repurposing of the app’s structure for positive, community-driven outcomes.

    At the same time, I appreciate your critical engagement with the platform’s addictive design and its foundation in data capitalism. This contradiction – between the platform’s exploitative infrastructure and its users’ attempts at meaningful connection – is especially important and led me to ask you: Do you think that the fast-paced, addictive nature of TikTok might influence the depth or clarity of recovery-related messages? In a space where viral trends dominate, do these videos become viral in the same way as entertainment content?

    Thank you again for a wonderful read.

    1. Yana_Chua Avatar
      Yana_Chua

      Hi Milagros!
      Thank you so much for your thoughtful response! I’m really glad you found my paper interesting. It’s encouraging to hear that the role of recovery-oriented content on TikTok stood out to you, as it’s often overlooked in discussions about the platform. You raise an important point about the fast-paced nature of TikTok and how it might affect the depth of recovery-related messages. I do think the short, rapid-fire format can make it challenging to convey more complex thoughts, but it also forces creators to be concise and impactful, which can resonate powerfully with viewers. That said, the potential for meaningful connections is definitely there, even if the format doesn’t always allow for deep dives. It’s impressive to see how some creators use this to their advantage, turning brief clips into ongoing conversations and supportive communities. Thank you again for your kind words and for taking the time to engage with my work. I appreciate it!