What We’ll Cover:

• Health Information Source Types
• Evidence-based information and news articles
• The roles of forums and social media
• Roczen’s resources

Finding health information is easier than ever, but knowing what to trust can feel confusing. There is information everywhere, from social media and online forums to news articles and medical advice. With so many options, it can be hard to know what is helpful and what is not. This article explains the different types of health information you may come across and how Roczen’s resources can help you feel informed and confident on your health journey.

Health Information Source Types

When looking for information on your health and well-being, it’s important to know where it comes from. Common sources may include:

• Evidence-based resources: Information supported by research and science
• Healthcare professionals: Doctors, dietitians and mentors who are trained to give medical advice
• News outlets: Newspapers, television, and online news sites reporting health stories
• Forums and social media: Community spaces where people share their own experiences (For example: podcasts, tiktok, instagram, X, Facebook)
• Search engines and AI: Quick ways to find answers, such as ChatGPT or Google, but the information may not always be accurate or right for you

Not all sources are equally reliable. Learning how to spot trustworthy information helps you make safe choices.

Evidence-Based Information

Evidence based information comes from research, studies and expert knowledge. It is checked and tested, which makes it more reliable.

Examples include:

• Peer-reviewed journal articles
• NHS guidelines
• Trusted health organisations

Some research articles can feel hard to read. The most important thing to remember is that evidence based information is designed to keep you safe and informed. Your GP or healthcare team can give advice that suits you, as they understand your medical history. They are the best people to talk to before making changes to your diet, lifestyle or treatment.

News Articles 

News stories often share updates about health research or changes to healthcare. They can help raise awareness quickly. However, headlines sometimes exaggerate results or leave out important details. It is always a good idea to check the original source or speak to your Roczen team or another trusted health professional.

The Role of Forums and Social Media

Forums and social media can be great for sharing experiences and feeling supported. They can offer encouragement and help you feel less alone.

However, they also have drawbacks:

• Advice may be based on personal experience instead of evidence
• Some information may be outdated or unsafe
• Comparing yourself to others can affect confidence or mood

A helpful approach is to take emotional support from forums while relying on evidence based sources and qualified professionals for advice. Be cautious of information from accounts or groups with little credibility.

Roczen’s Resources 

At Roczen, we provide resources that bring these worlds together. Our materials are:

• Evidence-based: written and reviewed by clinicians, mentors and health experts
• Accessible: explained in clear and simple language
• Supportive: linking evidence to real life situations

This means you receive information that is safe, reliable, and easy to understand. Our resources are reviewed at a defined cadence, and sooner when new research or guidelines are released.

Summary

Health information is everywhere, but not all of it is trustworthy. Evidence-based guidance and professional advice provide a strong foundation. Shared experiences can offer motivation and connection. At Roczen, we help you balance both, so you feel supported at every step of your journey.