There’s no denying that social media has its advantages. Keeping us connected to our loved ones around the world, keeping us entertained, and giving us an outlet to express ourselves. Especially during the pandemic, different platforms like TikTok and Clubhouse kept us entertained. I mean, can you imagine being stuck at home in 2003, playing snake on your Nokia? Well, yes, we’re pretty lucky. Sadly, there’s not always the case. Social media has many disadvantages; from bullying to self-hate, social media significantly affects mental health. 

How social media affects mental health? 

We spend a lot of time on social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter to stay connected with people. Little do we know spending so much time on these platforms negatively affects our mental health, making us feel lonely, isolated, and comparing ourselves to unrealistic beauty standards set by influencers. 

Studies concluded a link between excessive social media use and negative effects on mental health, including a higher chance of depression, anxiety, self-harm, loneliness, and could even result in suicidal thoughts. 

The disadvantages of social media in details

• Feeling insecure about your life or appearance. We’ve all compared ourselves to a model, influencers, or even our friends before. Although we know it’s not realistic, it can still make you feel insecure about how you look or how your life is going. These insecurities lead to feeling envy and dissatisfaction when comparing yourself to others.
• Feeling excluded and isolated. Everyone shares most of what they do on social media. Have you ever been the excluded friend? Generally, the more you use social media, the more you feel isolated, excluded, and lonely. As a result, the phrase ‘fear of missing out (FOMO)’ became popular among people. FOMO has a negative effect that can lead you to become compulsive and obsessive by constantly checking your phone for updates, leading it to affect your self-esteem and increases anxiety.
• Depression and anxiety. Many teenagers prefer spending time behind a screen over face-to-face interactions. For that reason, depression and anxiety rates have increased among teenagers. Studies show 20% of teenagers suffer from depression when reaching adulthood. It’s essential to spend some quality time with friends and family to be mentally healthy and boost your mood.
• Cyberbullying. Did you ever read the comments on TikTok? Some are very offensive.  Most people are constantly cyberbullying each other on most social media platforms, including Twitter, Snapchat, Facebook, and Instagram. These platforms spread rumours and abuse people verbally. 

How to decrease the impact of social media? 

The question remains, how can we decrease the impact of social media on mental health? Well, if you’re constantly using social media, it’s important to remember, you can’t judge a book by its cover. You might see pictures of people and compare yourself to them, but nothing is as true as it seems. However, here are some things you can do to improve your mental health. 

Decrease screen time 

Studies have shown that spending less time on social media and electronic gadgets will positively affect your mental health. That’s why try limiting your screen time. How? By following these steps:

• Set a time limit for each application
• Don’t take electronics to bed 
• Delete social media apps if necessary 
• Limit checking social media 

Change your focus 

Instead of focusing on what others are doing or how many likes you’re getting, you should use social media apps to check on friends. 

• Spend more times with friends and family. Having a social life outside your online presence is essential to improve your mental health. That’s why when bored, grab a drink with your friends or check up on your family. It’ll help to limit you from using social media, and it’ll improve your mental health. 
• Practise mindfulness. Reflect on your life and try to see the positive things. Practising mindfulness helps you focus on the present moment instead of thinking about ‘what is’ and ‘what could’ve been.’ Living in the present moment enables you to express gratitude, love and improves your mental health. 

The Upsides of Social Media

Social media gave us a laugh during the 2020/2021 lockdown. With memes all over the internet and humorous TikTok videos, I don’t think we could’ve made it through the lockdown without them. 

When we’re too busy to catch up with our friends, Snapchat streaks gave us a chance to connect with our friends and family and keep up with what they’re doing. 

In addition, no matter how far a person is, you can talk to them through different social media apps at any time. Not to mention having space where you can feel connected, empowered, and feel included in a community that shares the same experiences. Social media has made it possible for people to start revolutionary campaigns and share their stories. For instance, the #metoo movement and the #blacklivesmatters broke the silence of many people and provided them with a space to share their stories and feelings. 

Of course, that’s a small part of the role of social media. Platforms like TikTok and Instagram have opened job opportunities for people by becoming influencers and making money from the platform itself. 

Ellen Diamond did her degree in psychology at the University of Edinburgh. She is interested in mental health, wellness, and lifestyle.