Social media has become a ubiquitous presence in our lives, with many people completely relying on it in their day to day lives. However, while it offers numerous benefits, it can also have a negative impact on our mental health. Research suggest strong links between social media usage and depression, anxiety, loneliness and even in severe instances, self-harm and suicidal thoughts.
One of the main ways social media affects our mental health is by creating unrealistic expectations and comparisons. People often portray fake and curated versions of their lives on social media, which manipulate the reality of things to deceive others by highlighting only the positive aspects of their lives. Even though it may seem quite obvious, after viewing altered things on social media, it may cause people to feel inadequate or insecure about themselves. People may lose their self-esteem or self-worth after comparing their own lives to fabricated ones.
Another great factor in how social media deteriorates mental health is with FOMO and addiction. FOMO (fear of missing out) is made even worse by social media, and the idea that you are missing out on things can impact self-esteem even more, and possibly trigger anxiety. Additionally, it could even fuel greater usage, possibly causing addiction. FOMO may compel you to check your phone all the time for update, prioritising social media interactions over real world ones.
Social media can also cause isolation and loneliness, which may develop into depression and anxiety. Human beings rely on social interactions and real life contact to be mentally healthy, and by taking this away with addiction, you may risk developing mood disorders like anxiety and depression.
However, the worst of social media may just be knowing all of these problems and not being able to do anything about it. Social media is always accessible, and there is hyper connectivity that can trigger impulse control problems. Social media platforms are designed to maintain your attention, and often use potentially malicious psychological tricks to keep you online.
Yet, social media is not completely negative, as there are ways we can mitigate its effect. For example, you can limit your usage of social media, as well as being more mindful of the content. Practices such as exercise, meditation and hobbies can drastically improve mental health and reduce its negative impact. As it has become an integral part of our lives, instead of forcing it out, it is possible to understand how it affects our health, and take steps to promote a healthier attitude towards it.
