TikTok is a commonly used social media app that has seen a huge influx of users in recent years. While the significant increase in users of the app shows no signs of stopping, the question needs to be asked – is TikTok addictive? It can certainly feel that way for users, as the constant stream of relevant content may feel difficult to tear away from.

Not only does TikTok consistently provide a stream of non-stop entertainment, but the content is also extremely relevant to the user too. This is because TikTok uses an algorithm to select the videos it shows users.

The algorithm is largely based on user search interest, which makes the content of the app extremely suited to the viewer, and as a result, the app may feel hard to stop using. After all, every new video that is selected on the For You Page is likely interesting and captivating in its own way to everyone.

This format runs the risk of negatively impacting young and vulnerable users of the app. Addiction to TikTok may not seem like a serious threat, however, it can negatively impact the lives of users, specifically young people. The risks of TikTok addiction include a shortened attention span, an increase in mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression, as well as recent indications of a functional tic-like disorder.

Dr. Alexander Lapa, Psychiatrist at Ocean Recovery Centre, said: “The rise of TikTok is becoming an increasing problem in young people. There is a suggested correlation between the use of the app and mental health conditions such as anxiety and other mental disorders, particularly in young people who are vulnerable to long periods of exposure.”

“Extensive TikTok use is also starting to show signs of memory deficit problems in young people – the nature of the app is addictive and does not require long periods of concentration or interaction. Recent studies have indicated that young people are the highest at risk of becoming addicted to social media channels such as TikTok, which is a dangerous problem that needs to be taken seriously by us all.”

TikTok Addiction Infographic

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John Gillen - Director at Ocean Recovery

John Gillen - Author - Last updated: June 17, 2022

John is one UK’s leading professionals in the addiction recovery industry. Pioneering new treatment techniques such as NAD+ and ongoing research into new therapy techniques such as systematic laser therapy, John is committed to providing the very best treatment for people throughout the UK and Europe. During his extremely busy schedule, John likes to regularly update our blog section with the latest news and trends in the industry to keep visitors to our site as well informed as possible on everything related to addiction treatment.

Dr Alexander Lapa - Clinical Reviewer at Ocean Recovery

Dr Alexander Lapa (Psychiatrist) - Clinical Reviewer - Last reviewed: June 17, 2022

MBBS, PG Dip Clin Ed, OA Dip CBT, OA Dip Psychology, SCOPE Certified

Dr Lapa graduated in Medicine in 2000 and since this time has accrued much experience working in the widest range of psychiatric settings with differing illness presentations and backgrounds in inpatient, community and secure settings. This has been aligned to continuation of professional development at postgraduate level in clinical research which has been very closely related to the everyday clinical practice conducted by this practitioner as a NHS and Private Psychiatrist.
He is fully indemnified by the Medical and Dental Defence Union of Scotland (MDDUS) and MIAB Expert Insurance for Psychiatric and Private Medical practice. He is fully registered with the General Medical Council (GMC) in the UK with a licence to practice.

Dr Lapa is approved under Section 12(2) of the Mental Health Act (1983)

Member of Independent Doctors Federation (IDF), British Association for Psychopharmacology (BMA) and The Association for the Study of Obesity (ASO)

Dr Lapa’s extensive experience has also concentrated on the following areas of clinical practice:
– Assessment, Diagnosis and Pharmacological Treatment for Adults with ADHD.
– Drug and Alcohol Dependency and maintaining abstinence and continued recovery
– Intravenous and Intramuscular Vitamin and Mineral Infusion Therapy
– Dietary and Weight Management and thorough care from assessment to treatment to end goals and maintenance
– Aesthetic Practice and Procedures