technology, internet and people concept - african american couple with smartphone at home

//  by 

Have you ever stopped to wonder just how much social media has affected us over the years? With many of our current feeds being infiltrated with bikini bods and tropical vacations, it’s important to know the effect social media can have.

Depression and Anxiety

Especially in youth, signs of depression and anxiety due to social media usage has become a common finding in new research. Several studies found that users may develop addictive or problematic levels of social media usage, which have been associated with increased anxiety and depression. There are many positives to social media like staying connected to friends and family. However, our personal experiences and usage levels can lead to the surfacing of depression and anxiety symptoms.

Constantly being reminded of the things you don’t have, seeing everyone appear happier than you (or than they may actually be), work better jobs and have more money than you, can naturally make someone feel these negative emotions. It’s important to take breaks, or social media detoxes, to recognize that not everything we see on social media is real or an accurate representation of a person life. 

Improve Your Relationship With Social Media

Do not feel bad! There are many ways we can fix our relationship with social media and limit our social media usage if needed.

  • Learn about yourself and your habits when it comes to social media. Why do you constantly check your phone? Is there an underlying reason for it? Doing this can help minimize your usage and prompt you to address your needs effectively.

  • Avoid social media in the morning and night. Studies found that checking your phone first thing in the morning creates negative subconscious thoughts on replay in your mind, which could lead to things like depression.

  • Seek out other forms of fun! Explore different ways to move your body, read, listen to a podcast, join a group, or learn a new recipe.

  • Set positive boundaries with social media. Set a timer or track your usage through your “digital wellbeing” phone settings. 

It all comes down to how much social media you consume and how you use social media. Keep in mind positive boundaries to prevent the negative effects of social media.

Written by GUADs Summer intern Carla with contributions from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov