Status updates on Facebook could help further the understanding of mental health disorders and might be useful, in the future, to provide support and interventions for patients, according to an article by University of Cambridge in the United Kingdom researchers.
The researchers argue status updates, shares and likes can provide a wealth of information about users. Michal Kosinski, PhD, a study co-author from Stanford (Calif.) Graduate Business School, notes Facebook data tends to be more reliable than offline self-reported information.
A previously published study, which includes 200 U.S. college students, found that one in four students posted status updates showing symptoms that could be linked to depression. Analyzing the language, emotions and topics in status updates may allow researchers to pinpoint early signs of mental illness.
Additionally, previous research has also shown that some people with mental health disorders report having positive experiences with social media, suggesting that platforms such as Facebook can offer support and possibly, treatment.
"Facebook relationships may help those with reduced self-esteem and provide companionship for individuals who are socially isolated," said Dr. Becky Inkster, the study's author from the University of Cambridge. "We know that socially isolated adolescents are more likely to suffer from depression and suicidal thoughts, so these online stepping stones could encourage patients to reform offline social connections."
Mental health therapies could be tailored to individuals using their Facebook profiles, pictures and timelines, the researchers suggest. Researchers could also use patients' profiles to mine autobiographical information, which is sometimes impaired in conditions such as depression.
The researchers published the article in Lancet Psychiatry.