Authors - Jayan V, Sreejith Alathur Abstract - The COVID-19 pandemic not only strained global healthcare systems but also exposed healthcare professionals to unprecedented psychological challenges. Among the various stressors, the rapid spread of misinformation on social media emerged as a significant contributor to emotional distress, confusion, and burnout among frontline workers. This study explores the impact of social media misinformation on the mental health of healthcare professionals in India during the pandemic, using qualitative interviews with 41 public sector healthcare workers. Guided by the honeycomb social media framework and stress coping models, the re-search examines how misinformation intensifies psychological stress and how individuals and institutions respond to it. Findings reveal that misinformation created confusion in clinical protocols, fueled public panic, and intensified professional anxiety. Participants emphasized the need for verified communication channels, stronger digital literacy, and mental health support systems. The study underscores the critical role of individual responsibility, institutional action, and policy reform in combating the "infodemic" and protecting the well-being of healthcare workers. Recommendations include the establishment of centralized information platforms, community-driven myth-busting initiatives, and proactive involvement of enforcement agencies. This research calls for a multi-stakeholder approach to address misinformation as a public health risk in its own right.
