ORCID
Bailey Fraser, 0000-0002-0128-3749; Emily Pica, https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4100-226X
Abstract
The rapid growth of the global wellness industry and increased availability of health information through social media and self-help resources have raised concerns about the public’s ability to evaluate credible health information. This study examined how adults in Canada and the United States use health information, what they consider qualifies information as evidence, and their reading behaviors related to physical and mental health, including self-help books. A total of 96 participants completed an online survey assessing health information use, criteria for evidence, reading habits, and self-help book selection. Participants reported using health information primarily to make personal health decisions and to stay updated on trends, and they most frequently endorsed scientific research and reputable sources as evidence. Overall, participants spent limited time reading about mental and physical health and reported rarely using self-help books. Among those who used self-help books, selection was guided mainly by recommendations, reviews, and perceived credibility of authors rather than evidence-based content. These findings suggest a gap between individuals’ support for scientific health information and their actual behaviors. Future research using larger, more representative samples and objective measures is needed to better understand how the public navigates health information.
