With concerns about fake news on the rise, how can we know if the information we are reading about health and wellbeing is reliable?

Fake news has become one of our biggest concerns in recent years. According to new research by Readly digital magazine and newspaper app, almost two-thirds of us (65%) in the UK are worried about disinformation, while 44% are worried that the information they find online about global health issues might be fake.

Of the 1,000 adults that took part in the research, it was also revealed that almost a third (32%) of us feel overwhelmed by the amount of negative news we see daily. It’s no wonder 44% of us have chosen to take a break from following the news. 

“When trust erodes, uncertainty grows – and that makes societies more vulnerable to targeted disinformation. But research shows that people want trustworthy information and they are actively seeking it. The data underlines the essential role that editorial teams play in countering disinformation. All the more important to strengthen journalism – and make trustworthy formats more visible”, says Chris Couchman, Head of Content at Readly.

So, how can we know that the health information we are reading is trustworthy? Here are some simple things to keep an eye out for to help you spot misinformation - and learn which sources might be worth your trust.

Where is it coming from?

Where we get our information is an important consideration – especially when it comes to health and wellbeing. Whether it’s a headline that has caught your attention or a social media post, take a look at the source. Is it being shared by a large, reputable news outlet? Does it come from an established or trusted source like the NHS, or are qualified, accredited individuals being quoted? If you aren’t sure, look to see what other sources are saying about the same topic to get a clearer picture.

How recent is the research, and is there enough context?

Research on some topics can be harder to find than others, but always keep in mind how old the sources being quoted are. Health data from 10 years ago may be interesting, but may not reflect the current landscape. Context can also play a significant role in how we perceive the data we read, as it provides important information on the surrounding circumstances, helping us to better interpret and understand things more accurately.  

Is it too simplistic?

Overly complex health news can be frustrating, but when things are simplified too much, it can also risk misunderstanding or inaccuracies. Blanket statements, quick fixes and generalisations can all be more harmful than good. For example, saying ‘people with anxiety have trouble sleeping’ might be true of some people with anxiety, but it isn’t a symptom or side-effect for everyone. If things seem too simplistic – or if big claims are being made without clear, credible sources behind them – then it could be a sign that part of the picture is missing. 

Is it clickbait?

While a catchy headline isn’t a bad thing, clickbait is designed to make us react strongly and immediately. Designed to get you to click on a specific website or through to a certain article or piece of information, clickbait can often have questionable quality and accuracy. If you find a headline or piece of information that is grabbing your attention and making you feel strongly (anger or rage are some of the most common), it could be a sign that something is clickbait. 

Signs of credible health and mental health news and information

There are signs you can keep a lookout for that can indicate trusted health information. While there are still trusted sources out there that may not use these methods, keeping an eye out for these can be one helpful, easy-to-spot way of finding trusted, evidence-based information.

PIF TICK is the UK’s only assessed quality mark for print and online health and care information. Independently assessed websites and print publications that have the PIF TICK logo are identified as trusted, reliable sources of information. Websites and publications have to meet 10 key criteria, undergoing a robust, independent annual assessment to achieve and keep their accreditation.

Websites and publications that are certified by PIF TICK have to have a consistent documentation process, with staff receiving ongoing training and support. Information has to be evidence-based, reliable, and up-to-date, involve users in the development process of information, and provide a clear way for users to provide feedback. All information created needs to be inclusive, keeping in mind the language used and the accessibility needs of audiences. Information also has to comply with GDPR and other regulations. 

A wide variety of different sources of information are PIF TICK certified, including national health charities, NHS Trusts, professional bodies, pharmaceutical companies, private companies including Happiful family member Counselling Directory, and individuals. Certified organisations and individuals can be found in the PIF TICK directory. 

Look for the expert’s accreditation and qualifications

It can be hard to know what qualifications mean. With so many abbreviations and acronyms for different professions, qualifications and accreditations, how are we supposed to know what they all mean? While it might seem like a needless or frustrating extra step, researching what different acronyms alongside quoted experts mean can add helpful additional context about their expertise, experience, specialisms, and even if they are part of a professional body. 

Different professions have different professional bodies and different requirements on whether you need to be a member of a professional body to practice. For example, to practice medicine in the UK, medical doctors have to be registered with the General Medical Council (GMC), an independent body which ensures certain standards are met. However other professions like counsellors and therapists do not legally need to be part of a professional body. Only those who use certain protected titles have to be listed with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) by law. 

Counsellors and therapists can voluntarily join a number of different professional bodies, each with their own unique set of standards and requirements, including certain qualifications, continued professional development, and training. Find out more about different professional bodies.  

In a world overflowing with information, it’s never been more important to pause, question, and check the facts – especially when it comes to your health. It’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. By learning how to spot trustworthy sources and looking for signs like PIF TICK and expert credentials, you’re already one step ahead. With a bit of practice, spotting reliable health news can become easier than you might think.