Mind4Youth

Written by: Samhitha B

Approximately how many hours do you spend on social media each day? The answer of most teenagers would likely be a number greater than or equal to one. In the present society, social media has become an integral part of our daily life. But did you ever wonder about the effects of social media on your mental health ? On one hand, social media provides opportunities for meaningful connections, emotional support and self-expression – benefits that can positively influence one’s well-being. Let us first explore these positive aspects.

When used thoughtfully, social media provides numerous benefits that positively impact mental health. Platforms such as instagram, facebook and twitter allow individuals to maintain relationships with family and friends, even while separated by time zones. Beyond fostering connections, social media can help in coping up with mental health struggles such as depression or addiction recovery – they can find like-minded people who understand their problems and experiences, and provide helpful solutions. It is extremely beneficial for the people who feel vulnerable and lack support offline or are lonely. 

But on the other hand, social media also has many negative impacts on mental health.  Sometimes, people are exposed to cyberbullying and discrimination which can raise the risk of mental health conditions such as anxiety and stress. The obscurity that social media provides makes it easier for individuals to engage in harmful behaviors, targeting vulnerable teens with hate comments and bullying. The constant exposure to negativity can have lasting impact on a teen’s self-esteem. Another concerning issue that parents often complain about is that teens spend excessive hours scrolling on social media, which can interfere with their academic or work life. This overuse can also contribute to disturbed sleep and mood swings. In addition to that, the constant comparison and exposure to idealized content can fuel the pressure to set unrealistic standards.

The pressure to appear flawlessly on social media doesn’t just affect teens emotionally – it can also lead them to make questionable financial decisions, all in pursuit of perfection that may not even exist.In an attempt to keep up with the constantly shifting trends and the image of perfection seen on social media, many teens spend a lot of money, even exceeding their budgets, to buy the latest clothes, accessories, or gadgets. The constant exposure to posts showcasing new outfits or luxury items leads to unnecessary pressure to match those standards, often resulting in overspending on products that only give temporary satisfaction. Beyond purchases, the relentless quest to achieve perfection in other areas such as academics, relationships and even physical appearance – creates an exhausting pursuit that is often unattainable. As teens try to measure up to the flawless portrayals of others, the FOMO fear can create significant emotional and mental strain.

While the negative impacts of social media can be overwhelming, there are effective solutions that can help teens with their social media use and protect their mental health:

1. Setting Boundaries on Social Media Use:
   Establish specific limits on how much time to spend on social media each day. By using features like screen time trackers or setting app usage reminders, you can reduce excessive use and avoid the constant comparison that fuels stress and anxiety.
2. Practicing Mindfulness or Meditation
   Teens can benefit from practicing mindfulness or meditation to manage the stress caused by social media. Techniques such as deep breathing exercises, guided meditation, or mindfulness apps can help them calm their minds, reduce anxiety, and foster a healthier relationship with digital platforms.
3. Engaging in Physical Activity
   Physical activity can serve as a powerful antidote to the stress created by social media. Encouraging teens to participate in regular exercise—whether it’s sports, yoga, or even walking—helps boost mood, improve self-esteem, and offer a break from the constant barrage of online content.

While social media offers valuable opportunities for connection and self-expression, its impact on teens’ mental health cannot be overlooked. The pressure to conform to unrealistic standards, exposure to cyberbullying, and the constant cycle of comparison can contribute to stress, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. However, by implementing the above solutions, teens can take control of their social media experience and reduce its negative effects. It is essential for teens to reflect on their social media habits and recognize when it begins to affect their well-being. Take a step back, reflect, and make your mental well-being a top priority—because it’s time to reclaim control over your digital life.

Works Cited

American Psychological Association. “Health advisory on social media use in adolescence.” Health advisory on social media use, https://www.apa.org/topics/social-media-internet/health-advisory-adolescent-social-media-use. Accessed 10 December 2024.

Harvard Chan School. “Social media use can be positive for mental health and well-being.” Hsph.harvard.edu, 6 January 2020, https://hsph.harvard.edu/news/social-media-positive-mental-health/. Accessed 10 December 2024.

Online Anxiety Therapy. How Social Media Pressure to be Perfect is Making Millennials Stressed and Anxious, https://www.millennialtherapy.com/anxiety-therapy-blog/social-media-pressure-to-be-perfect.

Reynolds, Fatima. “7 Tips for Using Social Media for Mental Well-being.” American Psychiatric Association, https://www.psychiatry.org/news-room/apa-blogs/7-tips-for-social-media-for-mental-well-being. Accessed 10 December 2024.