Social media as a psychosocial resource and risk: Insights from breast cancer patients’ experiences in Taiwan

BACKGROUND: This study explores how breast cancer patients use social media to seek medical information, emotional support, and peer connection, particularly during the early stages of diagnosis. Video content is preferred for general knowledge, while text-based platforms serve personalized inquiries. METHODS: This study employed a qualitative research design to explore how breast cancer patients engage with social media during the early stages of diagnosis. RESULTS: Social media enhances patients' autonomy and psychological resilience by facilitating self-care practices and fostering mutual support networks. However, many patients participate passively due to psychological stress, information overload, or anxiety triggered by negative content. Social media engagement often evolves from passive consumption to active support provision, reflecting psychosocial growth and changing roles throughout the cancer journey. CONCLUSIONS: These findings highlight social media's dual role as both a valuable support resource and a potential source of emotional burden. These findings suggest that incorporating digital health literacy and emotional coping strategies into patient care could be beneficial. Future health policies may also consider supporting digital infrastructures that promote equitable and emotionally safe engagement in online cancer communities.