A mediated discourse analysis of self-disclosure in online self-help groups for anxiety and depression

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Loneliness has emerged as a significant precursor to anxiety and depression, prompting a growing interest in the role of self-disclosure as a potential mitigating factor. Previous research has suggested that self-disclosure may play a critical role in reducing feelings of loneliness, thereby alleviating symptoms associated with these mental health conditions. Studies have highlighted self-disclosure as a prevalent social practice within online support groups, indicating its potential to foster relationship development through participant interaction. However, there remains a notable gap in the literature regarding the interplay between self-disclosure and the discursive and complex context of online self-help groups. The nuanced effects of self-disclosure are often overlooked. This study seeks to address this gap by employing Mediated Discourse Analysis (MDA) to investigate the ramifications of self-disclosure in post messages within online self-help groups for anxiety and depression (OSGADs). Specifically, it views self-disclosure as a social action, elucidating its interrelationship with OSGADs. The findings reveal several key effects of self-disclosure in post messages, including distancing of individuals from their problems, enhancement of self-disclosure exchange, receiving and expressing empathy and understanding, and normalization of experiences. The results suggest that the digital environment of OSGADs facilitates self-disclosure, and the effects of self-disclosure contribute to the continuum of social support exchange. This study concludes by offering implications for the application of MDA in studies of online discourse and the role of OSGADs in alleviating anxiety and depression.