The window to the world for individuals with mental disorders: A qualitative study about social media

Abstract

This study aimed to determine the views of individuals with mental disorders on the experience of social media. This was a qualitative study conducted using the content analysis method. Using purposive sampling, 12 individuals with mental disorders were selected and interviewed. Data were collected using semi-structured interviews and were analyzed using the content analysis method. Four main themes and 10 subthemes were identified. The themes included the window opening to the world (source of information, facilitating life), from invisibility to visibility (feeling good, liberation and socialization), negative experiences (feeling lost, envy, and privacy), and the rejection of society (escape and stigmatization). Individuals with mental disorders stated that social media had both positive as well as negative effects on their lives. The results of the study highlight the various aspects of social media use and its effects on individuals with mental disorders. These results can be used in planning and implementing mental health services for individuals with mental disorders.