The discussion surrounding vaccines has diminished recently, with fewer mentions of COVID-19. Patients are expressing concerns regarding healthcare recommendations, such as surgeries, citing potential biases of their doctors. In cases of individuals with severe mental illness, such concerns may manifest as delusions or paranoia. Enhanced training for healthcare providers about severe mental health conditions is advocated, emphasizing that treatment should encompass comprehensive care beyond short-term hospitalization. The integration of psychoeducation, evidence-based practices, and skills training in supportive group settings is suggested as beneficial.
John Wright, a clinician and epidemiologist based in Bradford, UK, observes a rise in conspiracy theories, particularly during the pandemic. He notes that the unique circumstances of lockdown and fear led individuals to become more susceptible to alternative narratives. As a long-term NHS doctor, he has noticed a decline in public trust in health institutions, a trend he attributes in part to these conspiracy theories.
Wright recounts an experience involving a patient who refused hospitalization due to fears fueled by conspiracy theories about healthcare practices. The review of misinformation is further complicated by the role of social media, which amplifies these theories, particularly in ethnic minority communities that may already have lower levels of trust in public health systems.
Vaccination rates have dropped since the pandemic, with decreased uptake of important vaccines such as those for meningitis and HPV among South Asian families. A broader societal response, rather than just individual clinical actions, is necessary. Wright’s initiative, “Born in Bradford,” aims to track the health and media consumption of families to understand the relationship between social media usage and mental health, especially concerning the spread of conspiracy theories. He highlights the challenge of fostering health literacy in youth without appearing overbearing, while also seeking ways to effectively counter negative online narratives.
Source: https://www.technologyreview.com/2025/10/30/1126464/how-conspiracy-theories-infiltrated-the-doctors-office/