Social Media has completely changed our world over the last decade or so and now roughly 58.4% of the world’s population has a social media account. Despite how useful social media has been to keep us all connected, it has also caused lots of users to struggle with their mental health as they develop FOMO (fear of missing out), comparing themselves to others and staying glued to their phones for updates. Read on to find out more about what makes social media so addictive and what you can do to combat those anxious feelings you may have about social media.
Why is social media so addictive?
Social media apps are designed to attract your attention and keep you online as much as possible. This is how the companies make their money. But just like any other addiction, social media can create psychological cravings. When you get a like, share, comment or other interaction on one of your posts it can trigger the release of the hormone dopamine in your brain, which is the same “reward” feeling that you get when you win a game, or take a bite of your favourite food. The more rewards you get, the more you want to stay online.
What are other causes of unhealthy habits on social media?
FOMO – A fear of missing out can cause you to constantly check social media apps in order to see the latest updates.
A security blanket – Sometimes you may turn to social media when you’re feeling bored, anxious or lonely, and so social media turns into a comforting friend when you’re not in a good mood. This can cause you to get dependent on those apps instead of finding a healthier output to manage those feelings.
How do you know whether social media is affecting your mental health?
- You’re spending more time on social media than with your real life friends
- You tend to compare yourself to those who you follow
- You’re experiencing cyber bullying
- You’re having problems falling asleep at night and prefer to stay on your phone instead
These are just some of the symptoms you can get when social media starts affecting your mental health.
What can you do to improve your mental health?
Reduce your time online – Turn your phone off at certain times of the day, don’t bring your phone to bed, limit how often you check your phone.
Change your focus – If you’re using social media because you’re feeling lonely, then why not meet up with a friend in-person instead? If you’re using it because you’re bored, why not try out a new hobby? If you are comparing yourself to others, take a step back from their account and unfollow/hide them, then have a look for accounts that promote body positivity instead like: @i_weigh on Instagram which was started by actress Jameela Jamil, the I Weigh account supports inclusivity by asking followers to share a photo and description of themselves that focuses on their personality and passions, rather than their physical attributes.
There’s also @bbcbodypositive also on Instagram which although is no longer active, has many self-care tips as well as positive quotes you can save and look back on whenever you’re feeling unhappy.
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