How does social media affect mental health
Collaboration between technology companies, mental health professionals, educators, employers, policy makers, and the wider community is necessary. By prioritizing mental health and utilizing technology in a positive way, young people are more likely to achieve and sustain better health. Other strategies that could be considered include using social media to build supportive online communities for affinity groups and promoting youth leaders to create and disseminate content that promotes mental health. Researchers and companies can explore evidence-based strategies such as mental health promotion and mindfulness programs to mitigate the negative effects of social media and to help young people use social media as a platform for authentic self-expression.
But before understanding how social media affects children’s psychological health, let’s know first what social media is. In the spring of 2023, United States Surgeon General Vivek Murthy, MD, MBA, released an advisory called , in which he says there is growing evidence that social media is causing harm to young people’s mental health. Soon after, the American Psychological Association (APA) issued its own . A year later, in June 2024, Dr. Murthy on social media platforms, which would require an act of Congress to implement. Across generations, there are more positive than negative impacts reported by respondents; however, the reported negative impact is higher for Gen Z. Respondents from high-income countries (as defined by World Bank) were twice as likely to report a negative impact of social media on their lives than respondents from lower-middle-income countries (13 percent compared with 7 percent). Quitting social media altogether is also an option, but has pros and cons. Many people who stay away from social media report having better communication with their friends and partners. Taking breaks from social media can also decrease the risks to mental health that come from social comparison. But quitting may not be the best option for everyone—some people feel “out of the loop” on important events, and others feel they would miss valuable networking opportunities, especially as virtual learning and working become more common. Studies of young adults and their social media use have shown an inverse relationship between screen time and psychological well-being, with higher utilization associated with poorer well-being. Other research indicates the nature of the relationship individuals have with social media can have a greater impact on their mental health than time spent. There is also a link between and internet usage, including constant social media usage. Research shows that half of teens who are near-constant internet users say they have been called offensive names online, significantly more than their peers who use the internet less frequently. Cyberbullying can have serious negative consequences for our mental health, so being balanced with social media usage can help us avoid getting into conflicts online and cope with the negative effects of cyberbullying.
How social media affects mental health essay Advantages
Another possible source of depression may be what teenagers are not doing during while they’re spending time on social media, including and things that generate a sense of accomplishment, like learning new skills and developing talents.
How social media affects mental health essay Disadvantages
, PhD, a clinical psychologist at the Child Mind Institute, observes that “FOMO is really the fear of not being connected to our social world, and that need to feel connected sometimes trumps whatever’s going on in the actual situation we’re in. The more we use social media, the less we think about being present in the moment.”
How social media affects mental health essay with
Social media can also cut into the time that kids spend on activities that make them feel good, like exercise and hobbies. Additionally, it can distract from important tasks like homework. Having to juggle those responsibilities can increase kids’ stress. Studies also suggest that using social media at night interferes with restful sleep for many teenagers.
Essay 1 The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health - CliffsNotes
Facilitate discussions on the underlying issues of social media and have honest conversations about how social media can warp the idea of what is real.
Social Media and Mental Health Essay - Pro-Papers
Children and young people’s mental health can be adversely impacted by social media usage. There is a range of consequences, including anxiety, depression, body image concerns, self-harm, and substance abuse. Nevertheless, social media is a powerful tool for young people to network, stay in touch with friends, exchange information, gain support and advice, and find a wealth of knowledge. The use of social media by children and young people should not be prohibited, given all its benefits. Children need to be protected from harm by schools, parents, and companies in the digital industry by taking a proactive approach rather than reacting to crises on the spot.
The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health - Aithor
Focusing on the positive aspects of social media has been a recurring theme in the resources and advice about counteracting the negative effects of its use on youth mental health. Parents and teachers must pay close attention to signs that their children are experiencing cognitive damage from social media. It is also important that they teach children safe online practices so that they do not become victims of exposing their personal information or suffering abuse online.