Self-diagnosis is the practice of diagnosing or identifying a medial condition in oneself.

According to Psychology Today, the unlimited amount of resources provided to us by the internet has caused more people to turn to internet personality tests rather than seeing a doctor. Self-diagnosis is usually considered a dangerous practice, leading to many cases of misdiagnosis.

Senior Isabella Lee said she doesn’t believe it is a dangerous as people make it out to be.

“I don’t believe it’s always accurate,” Lee said. “However, it might not be a bad idea to do some research on the topic before going to see a doctor.”

Lee added that her mother believed she had dyslexia after researching the disorder. After visiting with a doctor, she ended up being correct.

“I have several family members that have diagnosed themselves but have never been to the doctor a day in their life,” Lee said. “I don’t think an online test can fully diagnose you. It’s always safer to see a doctor.”

Senior Chantz Taliaferro said he believes confirmation from a doctor is important if an individual believes they are ill.

“It’s becoming more popular because some people are afraid to see the doctor,” Taliaferro said. “The quizzes are sometimes able to help people understand what they may have. I would personally always go to a doctor before I trusted something online.”

Junior Katie Brungardt said she believes self-diagnosis isn’t a smart choice.

“People take these online tests and end up labeling themselves with something they don’t have,” Brungardt said.

Sophomore Eric Adams said he believes physical illnesses are easier to identify and diagnose than mental illnesses.

“If someone is vomiting they can just determine that it’s very possible they have the flu,” Adams said. “It’s harder to self-diagnose a mental illness because it’s not always right in front of you.”

Adams added he believes self-diagnosis isn’t always a bad thing.

“If a person is unable to get to a doctor right away then it might be their only option,” Adams said. “I haven’t noticed much of an increase in people doing it, but they need to be safe and always check with a doctor.”