Social media is now a part of almost everyone’s daily life, but too much screen time can be harmful for those struggling with mental health issues.
While being honest about the role the internet plays, it is clear that digital media has an interesting way of infecting the psyche. It can heighten her critical inner voice as you watch other people form cliques they’re not a part of, celebrity photos that look incredibly perfect, and influencers whose successes and sequels are envied. and doubt. Social media can also make cyberbullying instant and frequent, leading to self-harm and sometimes even suicide.
According to a 2020 Pew research study, about two-thirds of Americans (64%) say social media has a predominantly negative effect on the way things are done in the country today.
Those who take a negative view of the impact of social media notably mention the misinformation, hatred and harassment they see on social media. They’re also worried that users will believe everything they see or read – or don’t know what to believe.
Han Johnson, a sophomore journalism student, frequently uses Instagram and Snapchat and believes these apps negatively affect his mental health.
“Instagram’s algorithm is designed to show you things it thinks you want to see, and for many users, that’s unattainable fashion and beauty standards. It can have serious consequences for a young person’s mental health, ”Johnson said.
According to Medical News Today, unregulated use of social media leads to a constant fear of missing out, which many refer to as FOMO. People can feel like other people are having better experiences and more fun, which can affect self-esteem and cause mental health issues. Individuals may compulsively check their phones at the cost of sleep deprivation or choose social media over relationships or face-to-face dating.
Medical News Today also noted that prioritizing social media over physical and social interactions increases the risk of mood disorders such as anxiety and depression. People can help themselves avoid some of the ill effects of social media by limiting their usage to 30 minutes per day, thereby reducing FOMO and the associated negative consequences.
By being more aware of the time they spend on social media, a person may notice improvement in their general mood, focus and overall mental health.
Only one in ten Americans say social media sites have a predominantly positive effect on the way things happen, and a quarter say these platforms have no positive or negative effect, according to the Pew research study.
“I think social media can be used to HELP mental health rather than harm it. An example of how this could be done would be for people to post more positive stuff, ”Johnson said. “I’m an Instagram psychologist posting positive mental health stuff every day so maybe more stuff like that.”
At the University Guidance Center, students can find a team of dedicated professionals who strive to provide the best possible care in an atmosphere of acceptance and respect. They provide all services in accordance with the legal limits of confidentiality prescribed by the State of Mississippi and the direction of the Code of Ethics of the American Counseling Association, the American Psychological Association and the National Association of Social Workers.
The counseling center is made up of professional counselors and licensed social workers, as well as assistant graduate student counselors from counseling, psychology and social work programs. The Counseling Center offers a variety of counseling services, including individual and group sessions, for various mental health issues using a brief therapy model. Student services are free and confidential.
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