The Impact of Social Media on Our Physical and Mental Health
BY: Neighbors’ Consejo|
In the digital age, social media has become an inseparable part of our daily lives, transforming the way we communicate, share information, and connect with others. While these platforms have undeniably revolutionized the way we interact, they have also brought about profound changes in our physical and mental wellbeing. As millions of individuals around the world immerse themselves in the captivating world of social media, concerns have grown about its potential impact on our health.
“Being socially connected to others can ease stress, anxiety, and depression, boost self-worth, provide comfort and joy, prevent loneliness, and even add years to your life. On the flip side, lacking strong social connections can pose a serious risk to your mental health and emotional health [1] .” “It has transformed the way we communicate, share information, and consume media. While it has brought about many positive changes, such as the democratization of information and increased connectivity, it also had negative effects, such as the spread of misinformation and the amplification of hate speech [2] .”
According to the American Psychological Association [3] , “social media benefits teens by expanding their social networks and keeping them in touch with their peers and far-away friends and family. It is also a creative outlet. But there is also a risk. A Common Sense Media survey found that 13% of teens reported being cyberbullied at least once. And social media can be a conduit for accessing inappropriate content like violent images or pornography.”
“Social media use can negatively affect engagement with important health activities, like having a good diet, sleeping well, or exercising. Many mental health concerns connected to social media use (especially for young women) are related to a displacement of sleep or physical activities. Thus, it may well be that a reduction in health of those with a digital communication compulsion [4] .”
What are the negative aspects of social media? “Inadequacy about your life or appearance; fear of missing out (FOMO) and social media addiction; isolation; depression and anxiety; cyberbullying and self-absorption. What are the positive aspects of social media? Communicate and stay up to date with family and friends around the world; find new friends and communities; network with other people who share similar interest or ambitions; join or promote worthwhile causes; raise awareness on important issues; seek or offer emotional support during tough times; find vital social connection if you live in remote area, for example, or have limited independence, social anxiety, or are part of marginalized group; find an outlet for your creativity and self-expression, etc [5] .”
That is why we invite you to know how to make good use of social media, and for that, you can follow the content we have within Neighbors’ Consejo [6] , which will help you balance your mind and body. You can seek professional help in Washington DC for free, to have good emotional wellbeing and share happiness on social media.
[1]https://www.helpguide.org/articles/mental-health/social-media-and-mental-health.htm#:~:text=However%2C%20multiple%20studies%20have%20found,about%20your%20life%20or%20appearance.
[2]https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/impact-social-media-society-krishna-giri
[3]https://www.apa.org/members/content/social-media-research
[4]https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/digital-world-real-world/202302/social-media-use-and-poor-health
[5]https://www.helpguide.org/articles/mental-health/social-media-and-mental-health.htm#:~:text=However%2C%20multiple%20studies%20have%20found,about%20your%20life%20or%20appearance.