Written by Avy Lee
Social media has become a ubiquitous part of modern life. From checking Twitter updates to scrolling through your Tiktok ‘For You’ page and Instagram feeds, most people use social media on a daily basis. However, as entertaining as social media can be, it is no secret that it comes with plenty of downsides, too.
One of the most significant effects of social media is that it can contribute to feelings of anxiety and depression. Studies have shown that people who spend more time on social media tend to have higher levels of anxiety and depression than those who spend less time on it. This may be because social media use can lead to feelings of social isolation, as people compare their own lives to the carefully curated images and stories they see online. As a result, social media can also contribute to feelings of ‘Fear Of Missing Out’ (FOMO). When people see online updates from friends and acquaintances about exciting events or experiences, they may feel left out or as though they are not living life to the fullest. Although this is often far from the truth, watching others on social media living through exciting experiences that you are unable to may convince the individual into thinking that people on social media are living a “better”, more “fulfilling” life than they are. This can lead to feelings of dissatisfaction with one's own life, which subsequently leads to unhealthy comparison and consequently, contribute to depression and anxiety.
Another detrimental effect of social media on mental health is the potential for cyberbullying and decreased self-esteem. Social media platforms can be a breeding ground for negative comments and attacks, which can be particularly harmful to individuals who are already struggling with mental health issues. Because most social media pages are plastered with air-brushed, perfected photos of individuals, viewers utilising the platform are often subconsciously buying into the online perception of “beauty”. If one fails to fit into the standard norm of “good looks”, they are often mocked and ridiculed for their body proportions, or their facial features. For teenagers and children on social media platforms who are still developing and growing into their looks, extensive exposure to social media such a close-minded set of ideology can harm their self confidence for the long term.
Finally, social media can contribute to addiction-like behaviors. The dopamine hit that people get from social media likes, comments, and shares can create a feedback loop that keeps people coming back for more. Over time, this can lead to an over-dependence on social media and neglect of other aspects of life, including relationships and hobbies.
However, there are steps that people can take to mitigate the negative effects of social media on mental health. For example, setting limits on social media use, taking breaks from going online, and focusing on in-person relationships can help to reduce feelings of anxiety and depression. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the curated nature of social media and to remember that the images and stories people see on these platforms are not necessarily accurate representations of reality.
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