Introduction
The rise of social media use in the past decade has significantly impacted our lives. Social media platforms allow people to connect, share, and create content unprecedentedly. However, there is an increasing debate about how this technology affects mental health. While social media provides a variety of benefits, it also hurts mental health. This essay explores how social media affects mental health and sheds light on the positive and negative effects. The impacts of social media on mental health can be both beneficial and detrimental.
Negative Impacts
Unrealistic Expectations
One of the main adverse effects of social media on mental health is the way it can lead to unrealistic expectations of self. Most content shared on these platforms is filtered and edited to create an idealized version of reality (Coyne 3). This can increase insecurity, as users constantly compare themselves to unattainable standards (Berryman 311). This can lead to mental health issues such as depression and anxiety, as users become overwhelmed by feelings of inadequacy when they don’t meet these expectations.
Addiction
Another significant risk associated with social media use is the development of addiction. Addiction arises from constant and excessive use, which can lead to a compulsion to compulsively seek out, use, and engage with social media. Addiction can have mental health implications, such as depression, anxiety, and stress (Coyne 6). It is found that individuals who are addicted to social media are more likely to experience adverse mental health outcomes such as poor sleep, loneliness, and decreased self-esteem (Coyne 7). Hence, it is essential to regulate social media use to avoid addiction.
Cyberbullying
Social media has created a new platform for cyberbullying, which can have a severe impact on mental health. Cyberbullying can encompass an array of activities, from hate speech and malicious gossip to intimidation and stalking (Berryman 308). It may originate from anonymous sources or people the victim is familiar with. Research shows that those who experience cyberbullying are more prone to depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues and may even contemplate suicide (Berryman 310). Such an experience can have a devastating impact on the victim’s life, happiness, and productivity.
Fear of Missing Out
Another issue linked to social media is the ‘fear of missing out’ (FOMO). The proliferation of social media and the events and activities it enables can create a sense of exclusion that can manifest as feelings of inadequacy, anxiety, and depression (Berryman 312). In its most extreme form, this can lead to social isolation and depression, two severe mental health concerns.
Positive Impacts
While social media negatively affects mental health, it can also have positive impacts. Social media can also be used as a platform for self-expression. This can benefit mental health, allowing individuals to express their feelings and experiences in a safe and supportive environment (Abi-Jaoude 136). Additionally, social media can be used to share helpful information and resources, which can help people to understand better and manage their mental health.
Social Connectedness
Social media connects people who would not have been able to connect otherwise. It has allowed people to interact and share ideas and experiences. A growing body of research has shown that social media can strengthen social connections and improve mental health. For instance, studies have found that social media use increases social capital, which is crucial for mental health (Abi-Jaoude138). People who are more socially connected have a lower risk of developing mental health problems such as depression and anxiety (Abi-Jaoude 138). In short, social media can be a powerful tool for fostering social connectedness and emotional support.
Availability of Resources
Social media can also provide access to resources and advice for those struggling with mental health issues. Those feeling isolated can gain a sense of community and understanding through online support groups and forums (Abi-Jaoude 139). Social media platforms can offer a safe, secure, and anonymous way of seeking help from mental health professionals.
Promoting Healthy Habits
Lastly, social media can also be used to promote healthy habits. Staying active and eating healthily can be a significant advantage to those trying to find greater mental peace (Abi-Jaoude 140). Furthermore, many groups and pages are dedicated to mindfulness and meditation, which can be immensely helpful in reducing anxiety and boosting one’s sense of well-being.
Conclusion
Overall, it is clear that social media can have both positive and negative impacts on mental health. It can lead to unrealistic expectations and disconnection from reality, but it can also provide access to resources and support and promote healthy habits. It is important to remember that it is possible to use social media in a way that can be beneficial and that it can be an excellent tool for connecting with others and promoting mental health awareness.
Works Cited
Abi-Jaoude, Elia, et al. “Smartphones, Social Media Use and Youth Mental Health.” CMAJ, 2020 vol. 192. 2020, pp. 136-141. Web.
Berryman, Chloe, et al. “Social Media Use and Mental Health among Young Adults.” Psychiatric Quarterly, vol. 89, 2018, pp. 307–314. Web.
Coyne, Sarah M., et al. “Does Time Spent Using Social Media Impact Mental Health?: An Eight Year Longitudinal Study.” Computers in Human Behavior, vol. 104, 2020, pp. 1-21. Web.