Human connection is a basic need that is important for all of us. We rely on companionship for our happiness and mental health, and the invention of the internet and phones enhanced the way we stay in contact with people. Having easy access to socialization and support can improve our overall sense of well-being.
Today, there is a heavy reliance on the use of social media. Calling, texting, and emailing are now ways of the past. Platforms such as Twitter, Instagram, and Snapchat are major ways we communicate with friends and family. While there are some benefits to social media, it cannot replace the need for in-person interactions. In fact, it is possible that if you spend excessive amounts of time scrolling through social media, your mental health can be negatively affected.
Negative Mental Effects of Social Media
It’s true that some anxieties are directly related to social interactions, and social media actually makes it easier for some people to socialize. However, an individual who struggles with general anxiety may see their symptoms worsening due to social platforms.
Feelings of Inadequacy
Even knowing that things being posted online are fabricated, they can still make you feel insecure about your life and your appearance. People post the highs of their lives and for obvious reasons, leave out the lows. But even understanding this, it does not lessen the blow of seeing wonderful experiences from others.
Looking at beautiful tropical vacations, huge job promotions, and even a high school friend’s engagement can spark feelings of dissatisfaction and envy.
Fear of Missing Out
Seeing others live more exciting lives than your own can send you into a downward mental spiral. You may ask yourself, “Why can’t I do that?” or “Why can’t that be me?” You may start to only focus on the negatives in your life and how you wish that things could be different. This fear can trigger feelings of low self-esteem, high anxiety, and inadequacy. It’s possible that this may even lead to addiction. This could look like constantly checking your phone for updates on others, even if that means staying up late at night, ignoring tasks at work, and limiting socialization with others.
Loneliness
Social media had the intention of increasing communication with others and sharing experiences with friends and family. However, instead of helping with the issue of loneliness, social media has actually increased these feelings. Watching others have exciting, joyous outings can make others feel isolated and alone, especially if you see your friends out having a fun time and you aren’t there. Rather than trying to find any activity to do yourself, most people will just continue to sit in their isolation and scroll.
Bullying
While we see this more often with teenagers, adults can also be harassed online by offensive comments. The anonymity and safety behind a screen make this common. Social media increases the spread of lies, rumors, and abuse that can cause lasting emotional damage. Being on the receiving end of harassment can also cause anxiety and low self-confidence.
Self-Absorption
Constantly checking and posting on social can cause an unhealthy attachment to the digital world. People can become obsessed with the latest trends, losing themselves and their authenticity. Trying to conform to the mainstream media can cause unpleasant emotions and tremendous pressure to look and act like everyone else.
It may even start to distance you from reality and real-life connections.
If you find that you are losing yourself in the hustle of the media, it may be a good idea to seek help from a mental health professional. Therapists can help aid anxiety symptoms and help work on managing difficult emotions. If you feel social media is more of an addiction and want help limiting its use, counseling is a great place to start! Reach out and schedule a session today.
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