We’ve all been hearing a lot about social media use and mental health struggles. For example, a quick search of the internet shows that excessive social media use is linked to increased symptoms of anxiety and depression, especially among adolescents and young adults. Another study found that late-night Facebook browsing has been associated with feelings of depression and unhappiness. Another found that, FOMO (a real psychological experience) when experienced while using social media can also contribute to depressive symptoms. Other studies show that social media might directly cause depression.
A couple of thought provoking podcast episodes recently took this topic head on:
This is your kid on smartphones
A Q&A with Jonathan Haidt on smartphones, kids today, and what the skeptics get wrong about his argument.
The Gray Area with Sean Illing
America’s Top Doctor on Why He Wants Warning Labels on Social Media
The surgeon general says parents should be aware that using the platforms might harm adolescents’ mental health.
The Daily with Sabrina Tavernise
The point is:
- Social media tools are very new.
- These tools are interacting with our brains and our brains have not caught up to the technology.
- The technology has been engineered to “hack” our psychology:
But before we label social media as either all good or all bad, what does the science on this topic find?
Given how much these tools have become integrated into our lives (and even if you’re not a user into broader society/culture) it is vital that we recognize the real connections between our well-being and social media usage. Some of the things I have found in my own research into this topic:
- Usage Patterns:
- Comparable Rates: Individuals with mental disorders, including depression and severe mental illnesses, use social media platforms at rates similar to the general population1.
- Seeking Support: Many people with mental illness turn to social media to share personal experiences, seek information about mental health, and receive support from others facing similar challenges1.
- Positive Aspects:
- Negative Impacts:
- Depression and Anxiety: Excessive social media use has been associated with depression and anxiety3.
- Body Image Issues: Platforms contribute to body image concerns due to idealized portrayals of beauty and lifestyle4.
- Online Harassment: Cyberbullying and negative interactions can harm mental well-being4.
- Fear of Missing Out (FOMO): Constant exposure to others’ seemingly perfect lives can lead to FOMO and anxiety4.
- Sleep Disorders: Excessive screen time disrupts sleep patterns4.
- Mixed Findings:
- Complex Relationship: Literature reviews show mixed results. Associations between social media use and well-being can be positive, negative, or null, depending on advanced data analyses5.
- Small Effects: The impact size is generally small5.
- Research Gaps:
In summary, while social media can offer support and connection, it also poses risks to mental health. Balancing usage and promoting healthier habits are essential. If your relationship with social media feels…”off”…make sure to seek our support or support from a professional in your area; don’t leave to chance something that may be impacting your well-being! 134.
As with most things in our lives, social media isn’t all bad or all good. The question is:
“What kind of relationship do you want to have with social media?“
Dr. R.C. morris
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This post does not constitute therapeutic counseling or advice; the contents of this post are provided as a learning resource. We share the contents hoping that if you are in need of mental health support you will reach out to us directly or to a mental health professional in your area.