Being a sociable species by nature, humans need other people to survive. Therefore, while having social connections with others can assist in reducing stress, anxiety, and depression, not having social connections can seriously jeopardise one’s mental health. The quick rise of social media sites like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and others over the last ten years has brought about some major shifts in how people interact and communicate. The largest social networking site, Facebook, currently has over one billion active users, and it is projected that this number will rise dramatically over time, particularly in developing nations.
A condition of well-being known as mental health is characterised by people who are able to identify their potential, deal with day-to-day obstacles, work efficiently, and significantly impact the lives of others. Using social media to protect our mental health is crucial. The number and quality of social interactions have an impact on mortality risk, physical health, mental health, and health behaviour.
Effects of Social Media on Mental Health
Using social media can make people feel more depressed and anxious, especially teenagers and young adults. Social media’s addictive qualities cause dopamine to be released, which activates the brain’s reward centre. This “feel-good chemical” is connected to enjoyable pursuits.
- Filters: Physical attractiveness is a major priority on social media. A lot of social networking sites, like Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat, let users apply filters to their photos. Although filters are fantastic for making others laugh, they can also create false impressions because they make it easy to change one’s appearance and cover flaws. Regular exposure to photoshopped images can also make you feel self-conscious and dissatisfied with your appearance.
- FOMO (Fear of Missing Out): For many people, using social media makes them feel more FOMO. Social media check-ins with friends and relatives can give you the impression that they are having more fun or are leading better lives than you are. Social media is frequently referred to as a “highlight reel,” showcasing the most memorable moments in a user’s life. Access to other people’s highlight reels, however, can make us feel even more dissatisfied with our own daily lives. This can affect our sense of self-worth, cause worry, and increase our desire to use social media. Additionally, FOMO may force people to check social media frequently in order to stay up to date on current events.
- Cyberbullying: In 2020, 44% of American internet users reported having been the victim of online harassment. Cyberbullying is the deliberate and persistent use of an electronic device to harass, abuse, or ridicule another individual. It can negatively affect mental health and self-esteem. Cyberbullying and the dissemination of damaging rumours, lies, and abuse that can cause long-lasting emotional harm can be commonplace on social media platforms.
The Moderating Elements
The connection between social media and mental health is influenced by a number of factors:
- Age and Vulnerability: Because they are still forming their sense of self, adolescents and young adults are thought to be more susceptible to the detrimental impacts of social media. Compared to other demographics, they are more likely to endure social comparison, loneliness, and cyberbullying.
- Resilience of the Individual: Each person responds differently to stressors. The ability of a person to handle the pressures of social media may be greatly influenced by their resilience and mindset. Resilience can be increased by a number of circumstances, including strong social support, self-esteem, and good coping mechanisms.
To lessen social media’s detrimental effects, people can:
- Limit usage to prevent spending too much time in front of the device.
- It can be beneficial to follow up on positive, encouraging, and educational content.
- Self-awareness is needed to understand how social media’s detrimental consequences impact mental health.
- promoting digital literacy and teaching people about online safety, politeness, and cyberbullying.
- Requesting assistance and support when dealing with issues related to mental health or cyberbullying.
- Professionals in mental health can offer invaluable support.
- Enhancing resilience and creating relationships and support networks in the real world.
Get contentment and joy away from social media
Make in-person relationships and activities a priority if you want to enhance your mental well-being. Reduced screen time may result from this as well. Look for things to do that make you happy away from your phone. You can connect with people via reading, drawing, pickleball, hiking, having a picnic with friends, or taking your dog for a stroll. Engaging in enjoyable activities can also enhance your mental and physical well-being.
You must have a healthy connection with social media. Spend some time considering how you use social media and the impact it has on you. Your mental health can benefit from whatever action you take to reduce screen time or enhance your connection with your phone. Knowing when to call a professional might be challenging. Speak with your primary care physician about anxiety, depression, and other treatment options if you or a loved one is experiencing significant mental health problems.