In the age of constant connectivity, social media has become an integral part of our daily lives. It certainly provides numerous benefits, from facilitating communication, networking and information sharing. However, we also know it has the potential to negatively impact our mental health. Let’s explore some of the ways social media can be detrimental to our mental health, and some practical tips for managing its influence.
Comparison and Envy:
Ever scrolled through your feed and felt like your life pales in comparison to others'? Sometimes it’s hard to remember that social media often serves as a platform for showcasing the ‘highlights reel’ of people's lives. Constant exposure to others' achievements and curated moments can lead to feelings of jealousy and that our lives are inadequate.
Fear of Missing Out (FOMO):
Ever seen other people posting a relentless stream of social events, vacations, and gatherings and felt left out? This fear of missing out can lead to overcommitment and increased anxiety, as we try to keep up with an unrealistic pace set by our online peers.
Cyberbullying and Online Harassment:
The anonymity provided by social media can foster a breeding ground for cyberbullying and harassment. Negative comments, trolling, or online conflicts can have severe consequences on mental health, leading to feelings of isolation and self-doubt.
Addiction and Time Consumption:
Ever noticed that you open a social media app, and next minute an hour of mindless scrolling has passed? We can spend significant portions of our day scrolling through our social media feeds. Unfortunately, this can interfere with real-life interactions, sleep patterns, and our overall wellbeing.
So here are some helpful tips for managing any detrimental impacts of social media on your mental health:
Set Boundaries: Establish time limits for social media usage to prevent excessive screen time. Designate specific periods during the day for checking updates and stick to these boundaries.
Curate Your Feed: Unfollow accounts that trigger negative emotions or feelings of inadequacy. Surround yourself with content that inspires, educates, and uplifts your mood. Remember, you have control over what you see.
Mindful Consumption: Be conscious of your emotional responses while scrolling through social media. If you notice negative emotions surfacing, take a break and engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation.
Connect Offline: Foster meaningful connections in real life. Spend quality time with friends and family, and engage in activities that promote face-to-face interactions. Balancing online and offline social interactions is crucial for mental well-being.
Practice Self-Compassion: Remind yourself that social media is a curated version of reality. Embrace imperfections and focus on your own journey without constantly comparing it to others. Practicing self-compassion can help build resilience against the negative impact of social media.
To talk about this some more, give our team a call on (03) 9882 8874 or email admin@melbournewellbeinggroup.com.au
This blog was written and prepared by Hannah Gersh – Clinical Psychologist at Melbourne Wellbeing Group.