How Social Media is Affecting Our Mental Health and What We Can Do About It
Social media has become a huge part of our daily lives. It’s where we connect with friends, stay updated on news, and even find entertainment. But, as much as it can be fun and informative, it’s also having an impact on our mental health, sometimes in ways we don’t even realize.
The Dark Side of Social Media
Comparing Ourselves to Others
When scrolling through social media, it’s easy to be caught up comparing our lives with others. Other people tend to post their most positive experiences—holidays, successes, and celebrations—meaning that our lives may not look as good by comparison. This can result in feelings of low self-esteem or inadequacy.
Feeling Anxious and Stressed
Repeatedly checking notifications, glancing at messages, or fretting about online interactions can be stressful. Social media sites are programmed to keep you engaged, and the need to be constantly “on” can lead to anxiety. Even the fear of missing out (FOMO) can leave us feeling agitated or upset when we notice others experiencing things we want to be a part of.
Cyberbullying and Negative Interactions
Not all social media experiences are good, though. Cyberbullying, mean comments, and online fights can have a negative impact on mental health. These bad interactions can make people feel sad, angry, or even depressed.
Lack of Real-Life Connection
Social media is usually thought of as a means to socialize, but sometimes it can actually make us feel more isolated. When we are spending too much time on the internet, we could be forgetting about real-life relationships, which are critical to our emotional health. The more time spent scrolling, the less time spent developing actual in-person relationships.
What Can We Do About It?
Set Time Limits
One of the best things that we can do is restrict how much time we spend on social media. Choose certain times throughout the day to check your apps, and make sure you give yourself a break. This will help alleviate stress and prevent social media from controlling your day.
Practice Gratitude
Rather than concentrating on what others have, reflect daily on what you’re thankful for. When you catch sight of the positive things in your life, it can assist with diverting your mind away from comparisons and negative thinking.
Follow Positive Accounts
Make your feed full of inspiring and motivational accounts. Follow users who post inspiring content, hilarious videos, or informative posts that leave you smiling. Creating a positive social media experience can be very influential to your mental wellbeing.
Take Social Media Breaks
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, take a break from social media. You don’t need to close your accounts, but taking a day or two off can provide you with time to reboot. Take this time to do something that makes you happy, such as reading a book, spending time with loved ones, or taking a walk.
Reach Out for Support
If social media is getting you down or anxious, it’s alright to speak out. Talk to a friend, relative, or mental health expert. Talking about what you’re going through can make you feel heard and understood.
Be Kind to Yourself and Others
Keep in mind that social media rarely presents the whole picture of a person’s life. They post highlights, but everyone struggles. Be easy on yourself, and don’t judge your life on what you see on social media. Also, pay it forward by leaving nice comments and encouraging others.
Conclusion
Social media is a wonderful thing, but as with anything, it should be done in moderation. If we are aware of its influence on our mental well-being, establish limits for ourselves, and take time out, then social media can be made healthier in our lives. Our wellbeing should always be the top priority, after all.
