The Intriguing Facts About the Impact of Social Media on Mental Health
As social media has become a prevalent part of our lives, it's critical to understand the impact it can have on our mental health. From shaping individual perspective to influencing mental wellness, the effects of social media can be vast and wide-ranging. This article will go in depth to explain some intriguing facts about the influence of social media on mental health.
It Can Lower Self-Esteem
Many people, especially young adults, often compare themselves to what they see on social media. Be it from celebrities, friends, or influencers, comparison has become easier in the digital age. A study by the University of Copenhagen, reveals that many regular users of Facebook suffer from what they call 'Facebook envy,' where they become jealous of the happy images of holidays, love lives, and work successes posted by others.
It Can Cause Anxiety and Depression
Extensive screen time can lead to higher anxiety and depression levels. Cyberbullying on social media is a common occurrence leading to increased stress and anxiety. More so, the constant flow of information and news can be overwhelming, leading to feelings of helplessness and hopelessness. This continual exposure can negatively affect mental health, causing anxiety and depression.
Effects on Sleep
Blue light emissions from screens can interfere with natural sleep patterns. This disruptive effect can exacerbate mental health issues. Lack of sleep can increase the levels of cortisol, the stress hormone, and is associated with higher levels of depression. Additionally, constant exposure to digital stimulation can make it more challenging to relax and sleep.
It Can Lead to FOMO
The "Fear of Missing Out" or FOMO, is a potent mental health impact of social media. The concept refers to the fear that your peers are engaging in rewarding experiences from which you are absent. As people share the highlights of their lives online, it can lead to feelings of inadequacy and loneliness. A study by Computers in Human Behavior discovered that those who often use multiple social media platforms are three times more likely to suffer from FOMO.
It Can Create a Perfection Obsession
Because social media often celebrates perfect lives and bodies, it can foster unrealistic expectations and generate discontentment with one's own life and appearance. This constant comparison and pursuit of perfectionism can lead to mental strain and can trigger body dysmorphia and other image-related mental health issues.
Conclusion
No doubt, social media offers many positive aspects - from connecting with distant friends and relatives to expanding our knowledge universe in a click. However, it's important to realize that, like anything else, the overuse and misuse of social media can have negative impacts. These intriguing facts about the correlation between social media and mental health should provide valuable insight for us all to conceivably use social media in a more balanced and mentally friendly way.
