As a licensed counselor, Shantala Boss recently discussed Mental Health Awareness Month on “Breakfast With Bridgett.” She highlighted the importance of seeking guidance from qualified professionals when it comes to mental health concerns, especially in the current digital age where misinformation can be found on social media.
Boss emphasized that while awareness around mental health has improved, there are still potential dangers to be aware of. One of these dangers is the flood of misinformation on social media that can lead to cognitive biases and other issues. People may unknowingly process faulty or incorrect information, which can have a significant impact on their mental health.
To avoid this, Boss stressed the importance of seeking guidance from reliable sources and meeting with a licensed professional. Relying on influencers or information from social media algorithms may not always provide accurate or helpful information, and it’s important to receive appropriate support and guidance.
She pointed out that individuals of all ages can be impacted by misinformation about mental health, but teenagers are particularly vulnerable. It’s important for parents or adults to have open communication with teenagers and seek guidance from reliable sources when it comes to mental health awareness.
For those in Central Florida seeking mental health support, resources are available regardless of whether they have health insurance. People can access a list of places to find help at ClickOrlando.com/mentalhealth. “Breakfast with Bridgett” airs weekday mornings at 7:30 on News 6+ or ClickOrlando.com, and listeners can also tune into every episode of Florida’s Fourth Estate for more discussions on important topics related to mental health awareness.