Young people today grow up in a digital environment where health information is everywhere and constantly available. Social media platforms such as Instagram, TikTok and YouTube have become primary sources of advice on nutrition, mental health, body image, relationships and lifestyle. This unprecedented access to information brings real benefits — but it also brings significant risks. Alongside genuinely useful content, young people are routinely exposed to misinformation, unrealistic appearance standards, harmful mental health narratives and commercially driven health claims that may mislead, discourage or cause direct harm.
The challenge is not only that false information exists. The problem is that it is difficult to distinguish it from accurate information, especially when it is presented by trusted peers, popular influencers or content designed to appear professional and credible. Young people often make decisions about nutrition, exercise, mental health support, substance use and other health-related issues based on what they find online, without the tools necessary to critically evaluate what they see.
This module addresses that challenge. It develops the health literacy skills that young people need in order to navigate their digital information environment with greater confidence and critical awareness. Rather than simply teaching health facts, it develops the ability to find, evaluate and use health information — and to apply those skills in real-life situations.
This module helps participants:
• develop critical health literacy skills for evaluating information encountered online
• understand how digital environments influence mental health, body image and lifestyle choices
• practise empathy and peer-support techniques for sensitive health conversations
• move from passive consumers of content to active, informed advocates for their own and others’ wellbeing
See more in Module 3.
