Social Media and Mental Health
With the rise of digital technology and social media, it can often be difficult to avoid the internet and the convenience that it brings. Social media can be useful in providing new information, sparking inspiration and allowing connection with people all around the world. However, there is also a limit to what social media can bring. Constant, unmanaged social media use can leave an individual vulnerable to various negative outcomes. This article will outline the ways in which social media can negatively impact one's mental health, as well as how these effects can be reduced.
Recognise signs that social media is negatively impacting you
There are several warning signs to look out for if you think that social media may be negatively impacting you. These include:
- Long screen time
- Constant comparison
- Unrealistic expectations
- Negative body image
- Unhealthy sleep patterns
- Cyberbullying
- Addiction
Tips on how to use social media whilst taking care of your mental health
- Limit the amount of time you spend on social media
It is important to be aware of how long you may spend on social media. If you feel that it is negatively affecting your daily routine or mental health, it may be helpful to set a time limit for daily social media use. Certain apps which can block social media after a designated time period can also be downloaded. - Have detox periods
It may also be helpful to allocate certain periods of time that are designated to be spent offline. This can be done by scheduling in a few hours or days each week where you can’t open any social media apps. This may be difficult to do at first, so an alternative would be to gradually lower the amount of time you spend, and slowly progress onto a complete no use of social media. Tracking the number of hours you spend on social media and setting goals to lower it each time can also be helpful and motivating. - Pay attention
Pay attention to how you feel whilst scrolling through social media. Does it make you feel happy, jealous, guilty, or cluttered and confused? Recognising different emotions can give you clarity on how certain topics make you feel, and you can use this to approach social media in a more intentional, present and mindful way. - Social media and real life
It is important to remember that social media is not real life. Photos and stories posted by people often depict happy images, which can sometimes result in you comparing your life to theirs. However, remember that photos and stories are snapshots of a moment in life and life consists of both good and bad times. People have the choice to choose what they share to others so the full extent of their lives often remains hidden.
