The TikTok platform has a tendency to self-diagnose any new approach or trend that circulates and gets the attention of millions of people around the world. Labeled "cleaning maniacs," it has over eight million views, as it shows people's random bursts of energy in quickly tidying up their home and everyday environment.
At first glance, it seems like a harmless approach, but according to experts, labeling this behavior as "maniac" can have some side effects.
The misuse of the term "maniac" on the Internet is nothing new. Psychiatrist Aron Tendler explains the real difference between manic behavior and a healthy cleansing ritual.
What is mania?
This is a time when people can come together and share their experiences of a real mental illness or disorder. But experts worry when this behavior circulates in social networks to label a certain phenomenon or trend. The term "manic" is associated with bipolar disorder, known as manic-depressive illness; a brain disorder that causes unpredictable changes in a person's mood, energy, and ability to function.
@b0btaildog that hurt my legs so bad ? #grwm #fyp #cleantok #cleaning #ootd #roomtour #relatable ? kai bomboclaat - 6'2 with dreads btw
What are cleaning maniacs?
The phenomenon on TikTok refers to an explosion focused on hours of cleaning. Unlike an occasional cleaning episode, maniacs do this for days, weeks, and months on end. People film themselves cleaning the kitchen or organizing the rooms of the house and call this ritual as manic behavior due to sudden and unexplained motivation. One of the most significant differences between cleaning maniacs and mere obsessives is duration. Manic episodes last at least seven days, while hypomanic episodes last for weeks and months.
Why is this trend problematic?
The trend of cleaning maniacs may not be inherently dangerous, but the normalization of this approach with a common daily cleaning is something to worry about. Experts say this can impact mental health stereotypes and stigma, as it is essential to approach these discussions with great sensitivity. There is a lot of difference between a normal ritual and a manic cleaning episode, so be careful not to fall prey to this.
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Source: Pop Sugar
