Credits: Social Media
People at risk of PTSD can be identified by ‘reading a few of their social media posts’
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a legitimate condition that develops after a shocking event and can last for a long time.
A recent study found that people with PTSD are more likely to display a similar posting behavior on social media, which could be used for early intervention and treatment.
Identifying PTSD warning through social media
PTSD takes a huge toll on mental and physical health and people suffering from it exhibit several symptoms including but not limited to mood disorder, anxiety, reactivity, avoidance, etc.
It can even go undiagnosed, causing further difficulties for the victim as they struggle to go about their daily lives. While one may not be vocal about the impact PTSD has on them, their social media habits can be used as a warning sign.
Researchers at the University of Birmingham took to study the “effectiveness of using social media data as a tool for early screening and intervention”, for which they used data relevant to people who tested positive for COVID between March 2020 and November 2021.
They collected a data set of 3.96 million posts on X (formerly known as Twitter), to see which of the users mentioned that they were COVID-positive.
The scientist identified the positive COVID test as the common triggering event for PTSD and analyzed the keyword searchers relevant to symptoms such as hyperarousal, and avoidance behavior.
Posting behavior indicates underlying problems
The researchers found that people who were COVID-positive used the following keywords in their posts on X, which directly reflects their mental condition at the time.
- Flashbacks, nightmares, intrusions, panic, vivid dreams (re-experiencing)
- Agitated, startle, hypervigilant, irritable (hyperarousal)
- Avoid, avoidance (avoidance behaviour)
- Anxiety, depressed, suicidal thoughts, appetite, trauma, fatigue (other symptoms)
The researchers believe a greater understanding of people’s social media habits could serve as a tool for early screening and intervention.
Co-author Dr. Mubashir Ali, from the University of Birmingham, said: “We gained a greater understanding of users posting behavior after they were diagnosed with COVID-19. Our analysis indicates that the pandemic took its toll on peoples mental health flagging the possible impact of symptoms such as anxiety, insomnia, and nightmares rampant among COVID-19 survivors.
