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Influencing Health Without Expertise: The Risks of Unqualified Wellness Gurus & Influencers



In our digital age, social media has led to a whole new group of influencers, especially in the wellness community. Many women find themselves drawn to this space, eager to empower themselves and others by sharing personal stories and advice on mental health, relationships, and self-care.


But here’s the catch: a lot of these influencers lack formal qualifications, which can create some pretty significant risks, especially when it comes to the delicate language of

mental health.



Oversaturation and Overuse of Terms


You’ve probably noticed terms like "narcissist" and "gaslighting" being thrown around a lot lately. They’ve become buzzwords in the wellness world, often used without a solid understanding of what they actually mean.


While it’s great to raise awareness about these issues, casually labeling someone as a "narcissist" without any proper assessment by a trained professional can muddy the waters. It not only downplays the seriousness of these terms but can also paint a misleading picture of someone’s character.


This overuse can trivialize the experiences of those who are genuinely dealing with narcissistic abuse or manipulation, and it risks pushing away individuals who might actually need help and support. The real psychological issue is often lost when these terms start to mean anything and everything. 


Context Matters


Relationships, especially among women, can be complicated. Talking about emotional well-being, boundaries, and personal growth requires a good grasp of what’s really going on. Yet, influencers who don’t have the necessary training might oversimplify these conversations, which can lead to actual harm.


Imagine someone giving blanket advice based on the latest viral trend—this could easily prompt women to label their partners or friends as "toxic" without considering the full context of their relationships.


As many are aware, healthy relationships thrive on communication and understanding. When someone is labeled without a complete understanding of the situation, it can lead to unnecessary conflicts. This can also create a degree of blame instead of accountability, where people feel justified in cutting ties without having a real conversation about what’s going on. 


Our Responsibility


As a licensed clinical therapist, I want to emphasize the importance of approaching these conversations with care and responsibility. Influencers need to recognize their limitations and know when to direct people to qualified professionals for deeper issues.


For women navigating their relationships, it’s crucial to seek out resources grounded in psychology and mental health expertise. Connecting with trained professionals who understand the complexities of emotional well-being can provide a much stronger foundation for personal growth.


In the end, while the intentions behind wellness influencing are often positive, lacking adequate qualifications can lead to misunderstandings and even harm. It’s essential for both influencers and their audiences to engage in these discussions thoughtfully, ensuring that the language we use reflects a genuine understanding of mental health. This way, we can foster healthier relationships and build stronger communities.



 


Laura Lange, Licensed Clinical Social Worker/Therapist, LCSW, CADC, CODP I, EMDR Trained, and co-owner of Restorative Behavioral Health.


Navigating the world of therapy can be overwhelming, but Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Laura Lange is here to make it easier. As a therapist, Laura blends professionalism with compassion to create a safe and supportive space for her clients. She works with adolescents and adults on issues like anxiety, trauma, OCD, depression, and more, including couples seeking premarital counseling.


Trained in EMDR, Laura collaborates with medical providers and families to ensure comprehensive care.


Learn more about Laura and her practice, Restorative Behavioral Health at restorativebh.com

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