Door Fedora Boonaert (author) & Rustan Söderling (illustrator)
https://thecouch.hethem.nl/are-tiktok-healers-contemporary-quacks-or-re-risen-witches
“TikTok healers come in many shapes; some wear white coats and wield stethoscopes, while others are comfortably dressed in pyjamas on their couches – they each bring their unique approach. However, they do have something in common. What binds them all together is their willingness to openly share personal stories, creating a sense of connection with the audience. This stands in contrast to your regular doctor’s appointment, where you – or at least I – are often receiving cold, impersonal advice. Through TikTok’s interactive features, like liking, sharing, commenting, and stitching, a community is created. Within the confines of a short video, TikTok healers manage to build a unique bond with their viewers, positioning themselves as listeners and establishing an empathetic approach. This results in a safe space where people are not afraid to ask their questions, often anonymously since people can hide behind a chosen username, such as @kamalei asking “i feel so dumb for asking this but what’s the difference between being fertile and ovulating ???? does that just mean you can ovulate soon or?” (Author’s note: @kamalei, you are not dumb.) Empathy and time are abundant on TikTok, qualities our regular healthcare services frequently lack. When people are not listened to by their general practitioners and are left with particular problems or have questions that they are afraid to ask, they can find solace online.”
“The rise of TikTok healers put a new twist on how individuals seek and receive health information. With the rise of social media, access to alternative health advice has never been more accessible. These self-proclaimed healers are filling a historical void left by institutionalised healthcare services. However, this resurgence of alternative health advice comes with its risks. To answer the question of this essay: Are TikTok Healers Contemporary Quacks or Re-risen Witches*? Well, there is no real answer to it. The line between profiteers and well-intentioned healers is blurry, questionable remedies and supplements gain popularity. Misinformation spreads at an unprecedented pace, often with dangerous consequences; overdoses, unwanted pregnancies, hypochondria, etcetera. TikTok healers have created a complex web of information, misinformation, and confusion. We have started the historical process over, but in this restarting, we are stuck in repeating the same mistakes, the same violence, and causing new harm.”
