Dr. Hemamali Tennakoon is a Senior Lecturer in Strategy and Management at Brunel Business School. Before joining Brunel University, Dr. Hemamali held the position of Senior Lecturer in Management at Univeristy of Aberdeen. Prior to this, she was the Head of Business School/Senior Lecturer at Asia Pacific Institute of Information Technology, a higher education institution established in partnership with Staffordshire University in the UK and Asia Pacific University of Technology and Innovation in Malaysia. Prior to this, she worked in the capacity of Research and Policy Development Specialist at Sri Lanka Computer Emergency Readiness Team | Co-ordination Center (CERT|CC), a Government organization affiliated to the Information and Communication Technology Agency (ICTA) of Sri Lanka. During her time at Sri Lanka CERT|CC, she was involved in information security policy development, training and research.
In recent years, people across the UK have increasingly turned to digital platforms - particularly social media, online forums and mental health apps - to help manage their mental health and wellbeing.
From TikTok videos offering peer support to Instagram accounts sharing therapeutic advice, these platforms are reshaping how individuals access information, build communities and engage in self‑care. However, the therapeutic value, risks and long‑term impact of these practices remain underexplored.
We welcome proposals that examine how individuals use digital technologies, especially social media platforms, as informal or complementary tools for mental health and wellbeing. Projects may explore user motivations, experiences and outcomes, as well as the implications for mental health services and policy.
Indicative research question and objectives
Central research question:
How are individuals in the UK using digital platforms such as social media to support their mental health and wellbeing, and what are the implications for therapeutic practice and policy?
Key objectives may include:
- Mapping the types of digital content and communities people engage with for mental health support
- Understanding user motivations, perceived benefits and potential harms
- Exploring how digital self‑care practices intersect with formal mental health services
- Identifying opportunities for collaboration between digital platforms and mental health professionals
Methodological approach
The student will be encouraged to adopt a qualitative or mixed‑methods approach, potentially including:
- Online ethnography of mental health‑related communities on platforms such as Facebook, TikTok, YouTube or Instagram
- In‑depth interviews with individuals who use digital platforms for mental health support
- Surveys to capture broader usage patterns and attitudes
- Critical analysis of platform policies and content moderation practices
There is flexibility for the student to shape the methodological design based on their interests and expertise.
Candidate requirements
Applicants should have:
- A strong academic background in psychology, digital sociology or a related field
- Experience or interest in qualitative research and digital ethnography
- A critical understanding of digital culture and mental health discourse
- Familiarity with social media platforms and online communities (essential)
The ideal candidate will be curious, ethically grounded and passionate about understanding the evolving relationship between technology and mental health.
How to apply
If you are interested in applying for the above PhD topic please follow the steps below:
- Contact the supervisor by email or phone to discuss your interest and find out if you would be suitable. Supervisor details can be found on this topic page. The supervisor will guide you in developing the topic-specific research proposal, which will form part of your application.
- Click on the "Apply here" button on this page and you will be taken to the relevant PhD course page, where you can apply using an online application.
- Complete the online application indicating your selected supervisor and include the research proposal for the topic you have selected.
Good luck!
This is a self-funded topic
Brunel offers a number of funding options to research students that help cover the cost of their tuition fees, contribute to living expenses or both. The UK Government is also offering Doctoral Student Loans for eligible students, and there is some funding available through the Research Councils. Many of our international students benefit from funding provided by their governments or employers. Brunel alumni enjoy tuition fee discounts of 15%.