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? Most of our parents and grandparents have told us stories about how life once was without social media, and it truly is interesting. What research has found on how it affects us mentally is important for social media users to know.

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, 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 thar not everything we see 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, learn a new recipe
  • –       Set positive boundaries with social media.

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