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The ease of accessing online tools for self-diagnosing mental health conditions has surged in popularity, prompting experts to issue warnings about the potential dangers associated with self-diagnosis.

The proliferation of online screening tools, coupled with the rise of artificial intelligence and virtual assistants like ChatGPT, has enabled more individuals to attempt self-diagnosis. While some may seek professional help after receiving a positive result, experts emphasize the risks involved in relying solely on self-diagnosis.

Dr. Hopolang Matee, a clinical psychologist at Lighthouse Arabia, has noted concerns about the repercussions of not seeking medical assistance post-self-diagnosis. These include misdiagnosis, heightened anxiety, and the unauthorized purchase of medications online without a prescription.

The report "Implications of Online Self-Diagnosis in Psychiatry," published in the journal Pharmacopsychiatry, underscores various risks associated with self-diagnosis, including the potential for incorrect or hazardous diagnoses, increased patient anxiety, and the dissemination of unfiltered advice on social media.

Carla Khalil, a clinical neuropsychologist from The Valens Clinic Dubai, has warned against the dangers of self-medication following self-diagnosis, citing the risks of selecting incorrect medications or dosages, overlooking harmful drug interactions, and fostering addiction and dependency.

"Self-medication after self-diagnosis poses significant risks including choosing the wrong medications or dosages, overlooking harmful drug interactions, and opening a risk to addiction and dependency, which can exacerbate symptoms or cause adverse reactions," Khalil explained, The National News reported.

The prevalence of mental health conditions has witnessed a notable increase globally, with diagnosed anxiety and depression rising by 25 percent, as reported by the World Health Organization in 2022, a trend attributed to the COVID-19 pandemic's impact.

Despite the availability of online resources, experts caution against the reliability of self-diagnosis, particularly among teenagers. Dr. Khalil attributed the surge in self-diagnosis to increased access to online information, coupled with a desire for autonomy in healthcare decisions and a lack of trust in traditional healthcare systems.

While self-diagnosis may empower individuals to take control of their health, Dr. Khalil stressed the importance of using self-diagnosis as a starting point for discussions with healthcare professionals, rather than a definitive conclusion.

The dangers of misdiagnosis extend beyond incorrect treatment choices. Misinterpreting symptoms of conditions such as ADHD or bipolar disorder can delay proper diagnosis and exacerbate symptoms, leading to potential consequences like substance abuse or self-harm.

For many individuals, accessing official diagnoses remains a challenge due to affordability and accessibility barriers.

Heidi Frost, a resident of Dubai, expressed her concerns to The National, noting the significant cost associated with an official assessment, stating, "I can think of 50 different things I could spend $5,000 on." She emphasized her preference for concrete evidence and official labels, but also acknowledged the inconvenience of scheduling appointments and undergoing repetitive questioning, adding, "I've never met a questionnaire I can't argue with."

Experts have emphasized the importance of credibility in seeking information and support for mental health concerns, advising individuals to consult peer-reviewed articles and credible resources. Additionally, exploring community health centers, free clinics, and online support groups can offer valuable guidance and coping strategies while navigating mental health challenges.