If you’re looking for support or connection around mental health challenges, online mental health forums might be something you’ve thought about. But you should be aware of the advantages and disadvantages.

Mental health forums offer a space on the internet where you can share your mental health experiences, discuss coping strategies, and support and encourage each other.

But how effective are they? And are there any downsides?

There are several potential benefits of mental health forums:

  • Easy access: People may choose online mental health forums if they cannot access care easily. Forums are generally free to use and just require an internet connection and a suitable device.
  • No pressure: You don’t have to actively participate if you don’t feel comfortable. Just reading others’ experiences can help you feel less alone and give you a sense of belonging.
  • No stigma: People may choose to use online mental health forums if they feel there is a stigma around their particular issue.
  • They’re always available: There’s no need to book an appointment or speak with a person face-to-face if you find this difficult.
  • You can relate: Some people find comfort in discussing their mental health difficulties with someone who’s been through the same. Online mental health forums are often led by people with firsthand experience of your condition. This provides a different experience than speaking with a healthcare professional might.
  • You can be anonymous: A 2025 study found that 59% of participants felt safe to post online due to the anonymity it provides.

Despite the potential benefits, online mental health forums are not without risks:

  • May worsen isolation: Though not needing to speak with a person in real life can be useful if you’re not feeling comfortable with it, there are often benefits to face-to-face discussions. Only speaking in online forums may contribute to feelings of isolation.
  • Could be triggering: In a 2025 survey, 22% of people were exposed to distressing content in online forums. Additionally, online forums could perpetuate negative stereotypes or unpleasant stories that put someone off getting the treatment they need.
  • Risk of misinformation: Advice is from other users, not professionals, so it may not be accurate or research-backed. Additionally, some strategies may not be helpful for everyone.
  • Lack of professional oversight: Most forums are peer-led, so advice should never replace professional therapy or medical care. Nuances can be lost online, and therapy tailored specifically to you by someone who can get to know you in person has its benefits.
  • Can lack accountability: While it encourages openness, anonymity can sometimes lead to less accountability or harmful behaviors.
  • Quality may vary: Well-moderated spaces reduce harmful content and create a supportive atmosphere. However, not all forums are well-moderated, so they may not always be safe or helpful.

Effective moderators and community rules are vital to balance openness with safety. Research stresses that moderated forums with clear guidelines have better user experiences and outcomes.

If you decide to try an online forum, keep these tips in mind:

  • Look for forums with clear rules and active moderators (people who oversee what users post).
  • Avoid forums that trigger negative emotions or cause you distress. Take a break from the platform or stop using the forum if you’re feeling overwhelmed after being online.
  • Protect your privacy. Consider how much personal information you want to share.
  • Remember, advice on forums is generally not provided by professionals and may not be accurate.
  • Combine forum support with other mental health resources like therapy or support groups.

Remember, if you are experiencing a severe mental health crisis or need urgent help, mental health forums should not replace contacting trained healthcare professionals or emergency services.

Online mental health forums can be a great way to connect with others, share your own experiences, or simply learn about how other people manage their symptoms.

However, though they can have many benefits, there are some potential drawbacks to be aware of. This includes the risk of misinformation, distressing content, and privacy concerns.

Choose your online mental health forum carefully and always keep in mind that they should be used as a complement, rather than a replacement, to personalized therapy or treatment from a healthcare professional.

If you’re looking to connect with other people living with depression, Healthline’s sister site, Bezzy, offers an online safe space for community, peer, and expert guidance and support.