How Social Media Impacts Mental Health

Jan 27, 2022

According to a recent article in Medical News Today, the use of social media can harm our mental health.  It is associated with  depression, anxiety disorders, and low self-esteem.  The article reports that social media may elicit feelings of inadequacy, and loneliness.  As teenagers and adults spend more and more time online every day, social media addiction is becoming more and more prevalent, and our relationships and mental health are suffering.

A systematic review of studies in 2020 discussed the correlation between social media use and increased reports of depression, anxiety, cyber-bullying and suicide.  They reported that continuing to study the impact of social media on mental health can lead to constructive solutions for health professionals, thus lessening the impact of this often useful form of social interaction. While the findings of these studies are new and more research is needed to determine the full impact of this modern phenomena that affects people across all ages, genders and social status, it is important that we are aware of the potential pitfalls of ongoing and excessive social media interaction.

The solution is to take back your power.  Reduce the time you spend online and increase the time you spend in actual conversation and interaction with other people.  Go outside, spend time engaging in activities you love, communicating in person with people who uplift your energy.  Turn off notifications on your phone, and limit the amount of time on, and/or the number of times you check your social media feeds.  Your relationships will improve, and your health will thank you for it.

 

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