- Have any questions?
- 02 9247 6000
- media@commsroom.co
- Have any questions?
- 02 9247 6000
- media@commsroom.co
Menu
For a considerable number of people, checking their phone first thing in the morning is a norm. This sudden rush of online stimuli has become a daily, unavoidable practice, and it is currently shaping generations as we evolve and grow along.
Social media can have both positive and negative effects on mental health. It’s important to note that individual experiences vary, and the impact of social media can differ based on factors like usage patterns, content consumed, and personal resilience. People are different, but here are some common effects.
Connection and Support. Social media provides a platform for individuals to connect with friends, family, and communities. It can offer emotional support, especially during challenging times. The Internet makes the world smaller, and networks are now more accessible despite the distance as conversations can now be had and shared with just a click.
Information and Awareness. Social media facilitates information and awareness about mental health issues, reducing stigma and promoting understanding. Thanks to the ease of access of social networking platforms, people are now able to share their own struggles and seek help from communities that understand.
Expression and Creativity. Platforms allow users to express themselves creatively, share achievements, and showcase talents, contributing positively to self-esteem and identity. With interest in digital and 3D illustration and graphic design at an all-time high, social media users of all ages are now free to learn, share, and even market their creations.
Social Comparison. Excessive use of social media can lead to social comparison, where individuals compare their lives to others, potentially resulting in feelings of inadequacy, jealousy, or low self-esteem. Platforms that put high priority in the number of likes and views that content gets cultivates a mindset that fosters envy, which could lead to anxious thoughts or depression.
Cyberbullying. Online harassment, bullying, or negative comments on social media can significantly impact mental health, leading to stress, anxiety, and, in severe cases, depression. With the rise of deepfakes, fake news, and falsification of screenshots and profiles, individuals from any age group can become a target for real-world harm.
Fear of Missing Out (FOMO). Constant exposure to others’ curated highlight reels can contribute to FOMO, causing individuals to feel left out, lonely, or anxious about not measuring up to others’ experiences. This can lead to people putting an unnecessary amount of pressure on themselves to always fit into a hyper-curated image of someone “living their best life.”
Addiction and Disruption of Sleep Patterns. Excessive use of social media, especially before bedtime, can contribute to addiction and disrupt sleep patterns, affecting overall mental well-being. A high amount of screen time affects physical health as well, and the common victims of this are usually children and young adults.
Filtering Reality. The curated nature of social media content may present an unrealistic portrayal of life, contributing to a distorted view of reality and impacting self-perception. This could lead individuals to think that their real selves will be perceived as “unkempt” or “lacking,” which could make them spiral. Parasocial relationships could also be formed because one being chronically online and tapped into what their favourite celebrity posts on social media.
Understanding the potential effects of social media on mental health highlights the importance of responsible usage. Establishing healthy boundaries, being mindful of content consumption, and fostering a positive online environment can contribute to a more balanced relationship with social media.
As always, seeking support from mental health professionals is crucial for individuals facing challenges related to their mental well-being. Sometimes, logging off might not be enough and that’s perfectly all right! A mindful balance between being online and being present and rooted offline is needed to ensure you’re as right as rain.
Paulo Rizal is a content producer for Comms Room. He writes content around popular media, journalism, social media, and more.
