The Impact Of Social Media On Mental Health: Pros And Cons
- By Dr Adwoa Agyei-Nkansah
- 27 May 2024
Key highlights or summary
- Social media is a widespread and inescapable phenomenon - everyone is a part of it.
- While there are a number of pros, social media also comes with certain cons like negative self-perception, addiction, and sleep disturbances.
- The best way to maximize on the best parts - a good network, easier access to resources, and the entertainment received - is to consume safely.
- Be it timing how long you’re using social media, or putting privacy controls on your account, there’s a bunch of ways to make sure that you don’t over expose.
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Frequently asked questions
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Social media is mostly filled with young people. According to a survey conducted by the Pew Research Center in 2021, 81% of people aged 18 to 29 reported using Instagram, 73% reported using Snapchat, and 71% reported using TikTok. Facebook remains popular as well, with 70% of young adults in the same age group reporting use.
Social media can affect daily life in both positive and negative ways, depending on how it is used. It allows for fostering connections among family and friends, gives you fast news, and offers options for entertainment. These become a part of your daily life, whether it is you looking to relax, or simply to engage with information.
People usually become addicted to social media for multiple reasons. Instant validation, a crippling fear of missing out (FOMO), and escape from the daily drudgery of life are a few among them.
Individuals are more susceptible to comparing their lives with someone else's, the fluctuating amounts of validation can generally stress someone out, and there are chances of forming a negative self-perception. It builds a flawed idea of one's own self-worth, which ends up affecting self-esteem.
Cyberbullying has a terrible effect on one’s mental health. The fact that social media is a constant platform means that victims can rarely avoid their bullies. Effects are multiplied, which leads to increased feelings of humiliation and shame. In addition, it's persistence also leads to social isolation and heightens negative feelings in the victim.
Watch out for signs like increased anxiety or stress. Understand if you're constantly comparing yourself with someone else, and if there exist any feelings of inadequacy. Feeling sad and unmotivated after using social media is also a direct sign. Even social withdrawal and sleep disturbances are usually signs of the same.
Yes, there are many benefits that one can derive from taking breaks. You can greatly reduce anxiety, improve your sleep patterns, increase productivity, and enhance in-person relationships. You maximize self-awareness and can then consume content more mindfully.
Social media can help combat loneliness. By providing a platform for connecting with others, you can reach out and connect with friends and family who you are physically distanced from. You have the scope for joining online communities consisting of like-minded people, and support networks can be beneficial for combatting feelings of isolation.
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