Social Media and Mental Health
For most, social media plays a huge role in daily life. Is this extensive social media use detrimental to mental health? Geo Psychological Testing breaks down the potential effects:
The Positives of Social Media Use
Social media enables us to connect with people from all across the globe, including our closest relatives and friends. As humans, connection with others is a basic need; almost as basic as food and water, we require human connection for survival. Social media allows us to interact with people we may otherwise rarely see or even meet, ultimately allowing us to satisfy that need for connection.
Social media can also be a great way to remain informed on important issues, as you can follow your favorite news sources for updates. Furthermore, these platforms are great for raising awareness about important issues.
Platforms like TikTok, YouTube, and Pinterest are wonderful avenues for creative expression. Creative expression supports positive mental health and wellbeing.
The Negative Effects on Mental Health
While human connection may be essential for survival, too much of one thing can be detrimental for your mental health. For most people, social media profiles are highlight reels; if you are unhappy with your life, but you’re watching the seemingly happy lives of others unfold before your eyes, you may begin to compare yourself to others. You may ask yourself, “Why can’t I have that too?”
With a constant flow of photos and advertisements, social media can create a sense of FOMO (Fear of Missing Out). Users are constantly documenting their every move, posting photos from every social gathering they attend — and for those who were not invited, seeing these posts may sting a little. Therefore, social media can cause interpersonal conflict. Additionally, advertisers are constantly using social media to promote their products. Advertisers write ad copy using strategic rhetoric to create a sense of urgency; if consumers fear they’ll miss out on a deal, they’re more likely to make impulsive purchases.
According to a study conducted by the University of Pennsylvania, extensive social media use actually increases feelings of loneliness. When we are glued to our phones, we are not present. Often, we are mindlessly scrolling to fill time or a void. Whether we’re disassociating or simply bored, we are missing out on opportunities to connect with the people we see on a daily basis. Virtual connection is still connection, but isn’t nearly as satisfying as face-to-face interaction.
Behind the veil of anonymity, many people are more inclined to say and do things they would not be brave enough to say or do otherwise. With the introduction of new social media platforms and websites, cyberbullying has become more prevalent. Cyberbullying can have a huge effect on mental health, often resulting in suicide or self-harm. Because you are unable to control what others say and do, logging onto your favorite social media platforms may actually be more harmful than you think.
Have you noticed a decline in your mental health? Are you experiencing symptoms that affect the way you function on a daily basis? Is your child exhibiting behavioral issues or struggling in school? The professionals at Geo Psychological Testing may have the answers you are seeking.
Dr. Geo-Anna Hirshenbaum is a bilingual (English and Spanish) licensed clinical psychologist whose focus is on conducting psychological evaluations for all age groups. She has been administering assessments for over ten years and has worked with children, adolescents, adults, and the geriatric population. Interested in learning more? Contact us today!
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