The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health

 

In recent years, the rise of social media platforms has revolutionized everything - we come face to face, share information, and bond with others, that is, they get social interaction, which stimulates their brain and facilitates positively. What started out as platforms for social networking only from Facebook or Instagram to Twitter and TikTok has now become an integral part of life for millions worldwide. Besides, while social media have quite a lot of positive aspects, they also provoke questions related to their role in forming psychological well-being.

How and why?

The first subject responsible for making people feel lonely, anxious or depressed is social media with some of its inherent features that facilitate a different habit in people than what we have done in our past, without the existence of it. While these platforms assure you of connecting with many, curated posts, and the constant stream of updates are dehumanizing users to feel left out or make them think they are not good enough. Research has demonstrated a link between intense social media engagement and lack of significance and self-esteem, especially among young people who are more exposed to such dangerous types of comparisons.

Besides, smartphones and social media which resemble a potent drug can also lead to mental deterioration and depression. The moment of dopamine rush that occurs with likes, comments, and shares can create a cycle which validates personal selves online and they require further attention. Such a seemingly benign process of “needing your likes” can become a pretty potent anxiety when people suddenly do not like your posts or just outright ridicule or criticize you on social media. Therefore, this drive to prove one’s personal worth and superficialize daily activities through the Internet can easily lead to stress and anxiety.

The other issue is the seemingly endless "FOMO '' phenomena or the fear of missing out which is multiplied by the prevalence of social media and online networking. – What could be more pathetic than hearing from your friends who are off to a romantic date or even travelling, while you are just sitting still at home? This anxiety to stay on top of the latest stories can make the online followers feel outcasted and disconnected from their acquaintances.

Furthering, social media outlets are being blamed in the area of spreading misinformation and having social media accounts driven to uphold unreal standards of attractiveness and success. The photographs that have no filter, however, give us a concrete understanding of any idea of our desired beauty standards, artificially scapegoated body ideals, and unrealistic ways of living that can lead to a sense of inferiority and low self-esteem. This constant comparing the idealities with what we are is a terrible deed that may result in something as severe as a body dissatisfaction, disordered eating behaviours or even depression.

Similarly, social media can be a vital tool for a person suffering from mental health challenges as it provides an opportunity for self-expression and fosters connections with others. Online communities as well as support groups are the place where people are able to communicate their experience, ask for advice, and encounter with each other people also sharing their similar life problems. 

Wrapping up

Despite its challenges, social media can be also used for communicating and engaging people at the same time. To reduce the detrimental effects of social media on one's mental health, they have to apply mindfulness and self-awareness. How? In their online interactions, look for positive and supportive groups along with prioritizing the real-world connections. 

It is in our hands to do what’s right for us, so give yourself enough time to study your actions, feelings and thoughts. Only by prioritizing our own mental health, can we battle unhealthy social media use.