In the modern age of technology, the internet has become an important component of adolescents’ lives. While technology brings solidarity and opportunities for self-expression, it is essential to recognize how it might impact on our state of mind. As a 16-year-old, I’ve seen individually the severely impactful sites like TikTok, Instagram, and Snapchat can be on our generation’s mental health.
The Allure of Perfectionism
Perusing across our feeds, we’re constantly perplexed with photographs of seemingly pristine lifestyles. Filtered images, managed profiles, and expertly made narratives create a facade that may not entirely serve reality. Adolescents that are constantly surrounded by glorified pictures of the lives of others may develop emotions of inferiority and low self-esteem. A study undertaken by the Royal Society of Medicine for Public Health discovered that social media channels, especially Instagram, can have an adverse effect on young people’s body image and self-esteem. Teenagers may experience anxiety and tension as they seek to fulfil unrealistic goals imposed by their peers and influences.
The Fear of Missing Out (FOMO)
Social media has given birth to the prominent “fear of missing out.” Subsequently witnessing our friends engaging in exciting events or activities that we were not unable to attend, we may feel excluded and isolated, which can have a detrimental effect on our mental health. Following study results published in the Journal of Social and Clinical Psychology, higher levels of social media usage have been linked with increased FOMO and more severe life satisfaction. Continually comparing our life to those of others can lead to feelings of inferiority and melancholy.
The Vicious Cycle of Validation
Likes, comments, and shares have all become digital cash. The quest of approval through social media numbers may become an obsession, resulting in harmful behaviours. The dopamine high that comes from receiving likes may be addicting, while poor involvement can have a detrimental influence on self-esteem. Research from the University of California, Los Angeles discovered that obtaining likes on social media stimulates the same brain pathways as earning money or eating chocolate, emphasising the addictive nature of social media validation. This persistent demand for acceptance can lead to a cycle of dependency, in which self-esteem is linked to online connections rather than fundamental self-worth.
Cyberbullying and Online Harassment
The digital domain is not necessarily a secure one. Cyberbullying and internet harassment are genuine difficulties for many youngsters. The anonymity that social media affords might encourage people to engage in harmful activity, leaving victims emotionally traumatised and increasing mental health issues. A research published in the journal JAMA Pediatrics found that victims of cyberbullying are more likely to feel melancholy and anxiety than those who are not tormented online. Because of the widespread use of social media, bullying may occur at any moment, making it difficult for victims to seek relief.
Example: The Story of Emily
Emily, a 15-year-old high- school student, was cyberbullied when a fellow pupil made a fake Instagram account in order to replicate her. The account uploaded embarrassing photographs and spread fake tales, prompting persistent taunting from friends online and offline. Emily’s self-esteem plummeted, and she became extremely anxious and miserable. Despite reporting the incident to the school, Emily was bullied again, prompting her to leave school to avoid the pain. This example shows how cyberbullying may have substantial consequences for a teen’s mental health, underlining the importance of treating online harassment seriously.
Unplugging in a Connected World.
Ironically, while the internet brings us together globally, it may generate disparities in our daily lives. Excessive time spent online may contribute to diminished face-to-face contacts, leading to feelings of solitude and social isolation. Based on an American Psychological Association survey, young individuals who use social media frequently report increased degrees of perceived social isolation. Dependence excessively on digital communication can degrade the quality of real-life interactions, making it more difficult for teenagers to build and sustain meaningful ties.
Taking Back Control
As digital natives, we have the power to navigate social media mindfully. Here are a few strategies to consider:
Limit screen time
Setting limitations on using screens can help establish an appropriate equilibrium between the digital and real environments. The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests that adolescents limit their recreational screen use to two hours per day. Using tools to track and restrict screen time might help you maintain this balance.
Unfollow negative influences
Curate your feed using things that uplifts and fosters you. Unfollow accounts that set lofty standards or make you feel incompetent. Surrounding themselves with positive and beneficial online communities can help enhance your digital experience.
Practice self-compassion
Remember that all of us paths are unique. Treat oneself with the identical concern and compassion that you provide others. Self-compassion can help minimise the adverse effects of peer pressure and develop a positive view of oneself.
Seek support
If social media starts adversely affecting your mental health, don’t be hesitant to seek assistance from relatives, close companions, or mental health experts. Open discussions about your experiences could provide comfort and clarity.
In a world wherein social media is a vital component of growing up, it is critical to be mindful of its possible influence on our mental health. By being attentive of our online interactions and taking proactive efforts to build a pleasant digital environment, we may get the benefits of social media while also protecting our well-being.
References:
Royal Society for Public Health. (2017). Status of Mind: Social media and young people’s mental health and wellbeing. Retrieved from RSPH
References:
- Royal Society for Public Health. (2017). Status of Mind: Social media and young people’s mental health and wellbeing. Retrieved from RSPH
- Woods, H. C., & Scott, H. (2016). #Sleepyteens: Social media use in adolescence is associated with poor sleep quality, anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. Journal of Adolescence, 51, 41-49.
- Sherman, L. E., Greenfield, P. M., Hernandez, L. M., & Dapretto, M. (2018). Peer influence via Instagram: Effects on brain and behaviour in adolescence and young adulthood. Child Development, 89(1), 37-47.
- John, A., Glendenning, A. C., Marchant, A., Montgomery, P., Stewart, A., Wood, S., & Lloyd, K. (2018). Self-harm, suicidal behaviours, and cyberbullying in children and young people: Systematic review. Journal of Medical Internet Research, 20(4), e129.
- Primack, B. A., Shensa, A., Sidani, J. E., Whaite, E. O., Lin, L. Y., Rosen, D., … & Miller, E. (2017). Social Media Use and Perceived Social Isolation Among Young Adults in the U.S. American Journal of Preventive Medicine, 53(1), 1-8.
- American Academy of Pediatrics. (2016). Media and Young Minds. Paediatrics, 138(5), e20162591.
- Neff, K. D., & McGehee, P. (2010). Self-compassion and Psychological Resilience Among Adolescents and Young Adults. Self and Identity, 9(3), 225-240.
Author – Saarthak Singh
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