Using Social Media for Health Education and Engagement: A Guide for Health Departments
When you think of scrolling through your social media feeds, government agencies probably aren’t the first thing that comes to mind. But in Vermont, the Department of Health is changing that perception by infusing their Facebook and Instagram accounts with a mix of entertaining and informative content.
Meet Sadie Goldfarb, the mastermind behind the Vermont Department of Health’s engaging social media presence. Since joining the department in 2022, Goldfarb, a public health communication officer, has been hard at work transforming their online platforms into a destination for wellness tips that are as fun as they are informative.
### A Creative Approach to Public Health Messaging
Goldfarb’s strategy involves using humor and memes to tackle serious health topics in a lighthearted way. From reminding followers to check their basements for radon to cleverly referencing pop culture icons like “Elf on the Shelf” with a health twist, Goldfarb’s posts are resonating with Vermonters.
### Striking a Balance Between Fun and Seriousness
While the Vermont Department of Health’s social media feed may be filled with jokes and memes, Goldfarb understands the importance of balancing entertainment with their serious mission of keeping Vermonters safe and healthy. She carefully considers the timing and topics of each post to ensure that they strike the right chord with their audience.
### Dealing with Trolls and Misinformation
As with any online platform, the department’s social media accounts are not immune to trolls and misinformation. Goldfarb approaches these challenges with a mix of fact-based responses and a good sense of humor. She sees it as an opportunity to combat misinformation and promote positive dialogue, even in the face of negativity.
In a world where social media can often be a breeding ground for negativity and misinformation, Sadie Goldfarb and the Vermont Department of Health are leading the charge in using these platforms for good. By combining creativity, humor, and a genuine commitment to public health, they are setting an example for other government agencies to follow.
So next time you’re scrolling through your feed, make sure to give @healthvermont a follow for a healthy dose of information and entertainment. Who knew public health could be this fun?
