Social media usage
Social media is something that must be practiced with intention, and precaution. As all things, it can both benefit and hurt you greatly. It impacts you in every way imaginable, physically, mentally, and well, socially. By implementing safer practices in how you use and understand social media you can lead a healthier mind, body, and relationships. Today we will focus on Social Media and its effect on one's mental health
Benefits
- A sense of community and belonging
- Bonding and less loneliness
- Reduced isolation
- Awareness of social issues
- Can reconnect people
Drawbacks
- Depression
- Addiction issues
- Anxiety
- Reduced empathy
- Reduced self-esteem
- Worsened communication skills
- Disconnection from the natural world
Concerns
As mentioned above there are a few serious concerns tied to the use of Social Media, whether that be depression, anxiety, self-esteem struggles, etc. According to the Child Mind Institute, "A 2017 study of over half a million eighth through 12th graders found that the number exhibiting high levels of depressive symptoms increased by 33 percent between 2010 and 2015. In the same period, the suicide rate for girls in that age group increased by 65 percent...The less you are connected with human beings in a deep, empathic way, the less you’re really getting the benefits of a social interaction,” points out Alexandra Hamlet, PsyD, a clinical psychologist. “The more superficial it is, the less likely it’s going to cause you to feel connected, which is something we all need.” With these ideas in mind, we can begin to understand why it is important that you practice social media safely.
How can we avoid or reduce the drawbacks of Social Media?
Meaningful Interaction
Human interaction, face-to-face engagement is vital to the mental health of not only youth still developing, but to everyone. It is important to engage in-person because this is often what social media can take away from those who become enveloped and addicted to social media. It encourages a disconnect from our real world experiences, we ought to remember and value the people around us, friends, family, teachers, classmates, neighbors, etc.
Get outside!
By connecting with nature and getting outside you can not only reduce your time spent on social media, you can engage with your friends or family. Whether its playing pickup basketball with friends, or going on a hike with your family. This can not only improve physical health, but may also act as a distraction from current worries.
Sources:
Miller, Caroline. “Does Social Media Use Cause Depression?” Child Mind Institute, 16 Apr. 2024, childmind.org/article/is-social-media-use-causing-depression/.
Staff, All Psychology Schools. “Social Media’s Effects on Our Mental Health: All Psychology Schools.” AllPsychologySchools.Com, 18 July 2023, www.allpsychologyschools.com/blog/social-media-psychology/.
Hari, Johann, and Double Down News. “Depression and the Secret to Happiness | Johann Hari.” YouTube, 2018, youtu.be/6R0fTRTIQCE.