Adolescent Self-Diagnosis of Mental Illness in the Digital Era: A Scoping Review Using Stuart’s Stress Adaptation Model

Abstract

The phenomenon of self-diagnosis of mental illness among adolescents is on the rise in the digital age.  Self-diagnosis refers to the process by which individuals independently assess their psychological condition without professional evaluation. This study aims to identify the factors influencing self-diagnosis based on Stuart’s Stress-Adaptation Theory. A scoping review was conducted through searches on ScienceDirect, PubMed, ProQuest, and Google Scholar, yielding 14 relevant articles published between 2021-2025. The analysis revealed that the primary predisposing factors include personal motivation, mental health literacy, and attitudes toward mental health. Significant precipitating stressors include social stigma and limited access to mental health services. Meanwhile, coping resources such as social media, digital technology, and peer support can play both adaptive and maladaptive roles. Self-diagnosis emerges as an adaptive response to stress, yet carries the risk of misinterpretation and delaying professional help. Nurses play a role in promotive, preventive, curative, and counseling care, as well as in strengthening professional support for adolescents.