As social media has immersed itself in everyday life, psychologists have quickly become conscious of its possible effects on mental health. We are consistently warned about the negatives of social media – but what about the positives? How can we turn the negatives into positive effects of social media on mental health?
Now, I am not here to tell you to delete your Instagram account or cut off access to S
Here we dive into the pros and cons of social media and tips on how to use social media to positively impact your mental health.
Pros and Cons of Social Media
Social media is a relatively new phenomenon with Facebook launching only 15 years ago and Instagram 8 years ago. In the grand scheme of research, this is a blip on the radar. This short extent makes it hard to nail down repeatable effects of social media on mental health but researchers certainly have something to say.
Positive Effects of Social Media on Mental Health
- Allow self-expression that may increase feelings of connection
- Quality interactions can increase self-esteem
- Maintaining connections to family and friends can increase psychological well-being
- Enable broader opportunities to engage with others
- Allow increased social and emotional support for people with chronic illness
Negative Effects of Social Media on Mental Health
- False perception of other people’s lives may cause depressive symptoms
- Poor quality interaction may cause loneliness and feelings of disconnect
- Comparison
to others may cause feelings of depression - Fear of Missing Out (FOMO) may cause anxiety
- Screen time may cause a
disconnect from the present moment
How YOU use social media is what really matters!
A huge challenge presented by anxiety is the challenge to be present in everyday life. Anxiety makes it easy to get lost in thought and completely miss out on experiencing the world around you. Social media only adds to a disconnect from the current moment.
Often times I get called out for not being aware, but honestly, my mind is so busy that it doesn’t seem to give attention to the things that actually matter. Social media throws another very intriguing distraction in the mix as if paying attention to the “now” wasn’t already challenging.
In all reality, social media isn’t the issue. How we use social media is what really matters. It can be a place of connectedness, support, and expression when used positively – and not in excess.
Tips for a Positive Relationship with Social Media
Social Media Tips
- Limit your screen time
Yes, we usually start to glaze over when we hear this tip. Although there is evidence that shows extensive time on social media can lead to depressive symptoms. So what’s the harm in cutting back? There are tons of apps that help limit screen time. Take a look at how much time you spend on social media. Now, challenge yourself to cut that number in HALF!
- Pay attention to the present moment
This one can be simple, if you let it. Just be present in the situation you are in and really pay attention to your face-to-face interactions. You will not only get more out of social interactions but you will reduce time spent aimlessly scrolling.
- Unfollow any negative accounts
This is a MUST. The type of content you consume on social media can affect your mindset. If somebody isn’t bringing you joy or is causing negative feelings, ditch them. You don’t owe them a thing, and you will be better for it. Good vibes only!
- Comment positively and ignore negative users
Now we unfollowed negative users but let’s also play our part in being positive users. If you don’t have something nice to say (yep you go it) then don’t say it at all. There is no need to add drama to your life via social media. If you are being positive and somebody turns it negative well refer to tip 3!
- Only participate in quality interactions
If an interaction on social media is not serving you than it is okay (actually encouraged) to disengage. You owe it to yourself to only engage in interactions that nourish you.
- Do not compare yourself to others
This is a hard one but it can definitely be done. Most people only post their best side on social media. Their most fun outings and their most trendy outfits, of course always with a smile. This is not real life and the people we compare ourselves to are just that – people – who are most likely comparing themselves as well. When you catch yourself comparing remind yourself of that simple fact and let go of the negativity.
Let the Positive Vibes Roll
Social media can be like a simulated mind race, but only if you let it. Of course, there are positive and negatives of social media – but isn’t that how it goes for most things in life? Social media platforms can be a world of self-doubt and comparison OR a world of connected opportunity and self-expression. We have the ability to make it the latter and not the former.
When scrolling through your social platform of choice make a conscious decision to let the positive effects of social media shine through. Focus on quality interactions while reminding yourself that there is no need to compare yourself to Jessica the fitness model. It is always a good idea to limit your screen time so that you can enjoy the moment you are in with the people that surround you.
Choose just one of the tips to create a positive social media environment today and see how it has the ability to change the way you view life (even in a small way).
