The Impact of Social Media
on Mental Health
The Internal Monologue of a Typical Social Media
User
Have you ever had thoughts like "I am ugly"
or "I am not good enough" while scrolling through your social media
feeds? You are not alone. Many of us experience these thoughts and feelings
daily without even realizing it. Bailey Parnell, a social media expert,
discusses the detrimental effects of social media on our mental health. She
sheds light on our anxieties and pressures and offers strategies for creating a
healthier online experience.
The Vicious Cycle of Social Media
Like someone who shares her experience of going on
a vacation without access to her phone or social media, she initially struggled
with the fear of missing out on followers and constantly checking her phone for
notifications. Over time, she realized the negative impact that social media
was having on her mental well-being. This realization sparked her interest in
studying the effects of social media on mental health.
The Disturbing Statistics
Research has shown that high social media usage is
correlated with increased levels of anxiety and depression. Parnell highlights
the alarming fact that 90% of individuals aged 18-29 are active on social
media, spending an average of two hours per day on these platforms. These
statistics raise concerns about the long-term effects of excessive social media
use.
The Four Common Stressors of Social Media
Parnell identifies four everyday stressors that can
lead to mental health issues:
1.
Highlight
Reel: Social media
platforms often showcase people's best moments, leading to constant comparison
and feelings of inadequacy.
2.
Social
Currency: Likes, comments, and
shares have become a form of social currency, affecting our self-worth, and
leading to a constant need for validation.
3.
F.O.M.O.
(Fear of Missing Out): The
fear of missing out on social connections, events, or opportunities can cause
anxiety and drive excessive social media use.
4.
Online
Harassment: Online
harassment is a prevalent issue, with 40% of adults experiencing it and 73%
witnessing it. This can have severe psychological consequences, especially for
marginalized groups.
Recognizing
the Problem and Taking Control
Parnell emphasizes the importance of recognizing
the adverse effects of social media on our mental health. She encourages
individuals to evaluate their social media consumption and its impact on their
well-being. By creating a safer and more positive online experience, we can
mitigate the harmful effects of social media on our mental health.
Creating a
Healthier Online Experience
Parnell suggests several strategies for creating a
healthier online experience:
- Control
your social media consumption and be mindful of how it makes you feel.
- Unfollow
accounts or individuals that negatively impact your mental health.
- Focus
on following accounts that inspire, motivate, and make you laugh.
- Lead
by example and treat others with respect and kindness online.
Conclusion
Social media can have both positive and negative
effects on our mental health. It is essential to be aware of its potential
drawbacks and take steps to create a healthier online experience. By
recognizing the problem, evaluating our social media usage, and fostering a
positive online environment, we can protect our mental well-being and maximize
our time on social media.
Refference:
TEDX Talks