Impact of Social Media on Student Mental Health
Introduction
Many studies have found a link between excessive social media usage and depression as well as anxiety. Social media is known to amplify feelings of addiction, isolation, insecurity, and fear of missing out.
How Does Social Media Affect Mental Health?
Humans are inherently social beings. Lack of social interaction can lead to a variety of social problems. Students use social media platforms such as TikTok, Snapchat, Instagram, and Twitter not only for communication but also for enjoyment. While these platforms may not cause mental health issues themselves, they may exuberate current issues. Ultimately, studies show that in-person interaction is required to release hormones that positively contribute to mental health.
Pros of Social Media:
Social media helps you connect with friends, family, and others around the world.
Social media allows you to network with other individuals and gain more connections.
Social media can offer support and emotional connection through hardships.
Social media allows you to discover your sense of self and expand your perspective.
Social media is a creative outlet for originality and self-expression.
Cons of Social Media:
Studies show that social media puts you at a heightened risk for anxiety, loneliness, depression, suicidal thoughts, and self-harm.
Social media amplifies high points or low points in people’s lives, leading to viewers adopting a depressive cycle.
The consumption of unrealistic content on social media creates dissatisfaction about your appearance or life.
Social media leads to a fear of missing out (FOMO). FOMO compels individuals to constantly check their phones to respond to alerts or keep up with the latest trends.
A study published by the University of Pennsylvania determined that social media usage increases feelings of loneliness.
Cyberbullying is extremely common on social media platforms, particularly platforms that do not regulate comments. For example, Instagram reels have comment sections that are filled with bullying.
Individuals who constantly post on social media are at greater risk of becoming self-absorbed.
What Causes Social Media Usage?
Since our lives revolve around our phones, social media is extremely easy to access and becomes part of our daily routine, even if unintentional.
Social media apps are designed to keep your attention. They use artful tactics to trigger a dopamine release, leading you to spend many more hours on the app than anticipated.
Much like a gambling compulsion or an addiction to nicotine, alcohol, or drugs, social media use can create psychological cravings.
Many individuals fear being left out of conversations or gossip if they aren’t aware of the latest trends on social media.
Moreover, social media can be used as a “security blanket” or outlet for individuals who struggle with social anxiety. Instead of addressing the anxiety, they may turn to social media, further fueling their anxiety.
Students may use social media to mask other mental health issues rather than addressing the problem.
In short, excessive social media usage leaves individuals in a perpetual cycle that contributes to a downward spiral.
How to Improve Social Media Usage:
Lessen time spent on social media.
While it may not be realistic to limit yourself to only 30 seconds of social media a day or delete the apps entirely, efforts can be made to track screen time and set consequent goals.
Turn off your phones at specific times of the day.
Turn off notifications on your phone at night.
Try to limit the number of times you check social media daily.
Change your focus.
Spend your efforts on something that brings you more fulfillment.
For example, pick up a new hobby, read, or better organize your study schedule.
Spend more time with friends and family.
Set up time each week to spend time with your friends or family.
When spending time, try not to use your screen and instead be fully present in the moment.
Interact with strangers.
If you are socially awkward, embrace it.
Join a club with like-minded individuals, whether a sports club or an academic club.
Express gratitude.
Volunteer
Thank your friends and family
Self-reflect