The increase in the use of social networks has been quite rapid. A significant part of the global population spends close to 2.5 hours everyday on social media platforms. It’s not hard to notice a family member or friend immersed almost all day on instagram/ facebook/ twitter, etc. Perhaps this happens to you too.
It’s true that social networks act as positive tools for interacting with other individuals. It allows us to reduce the physical distance and be better connected with others.
However, social networks have a negative impact on well-being and the quality of life when they are not used in a moderate and conscious way. And without warnings, they can affect and damage our mental health.
Let’s read where the excessive use of social networks leads us and how they negatively impact on our well-being:
The decrease in face-to-face interaction occurs as a result of its abusive use. This can have a negative impact on our relationships, as we end up losing the real connection with the people around us.
By being immersed in social media, we miss the opportunity to create spaces to share and communicate with our loved ones or colleagues.
Social media leads us to be absent in important situations in our life. This can be seen frequently in the case of families, for example, when parents miss essential moments in the lives of their children or they stop sharing because they are constantly gazing through social networks.
On the other hand, the use of social networks can cause damage to self-esteem thanks to the insecurities that sneak in thanks to the constant content from one’s network of connections.
What we often see on the screen are very far from reality, stereotypes of beauty and utopian lifestyles. By design, the majority of society uploads content that reflect the good side of their lives, the seemingly “perfect” part. It’s not hard to end up framing an ideal expectation in life or inevitably comparing ourselves with others.
However, our satisfaction cannot be attributed to the number of “likes” we receive. This can lead to anxiety, distress, or depression.
For i
ndividuals who are prone to anxiety or depression, the excessive use of social media can make their psychological and mental state worse.
We believe that social media addiction must considered a threat just like the common addictions to alcohol, drugs, etc. Social networks can be extremely addictive for younger people. The constant notifications stimulate us to further abuse our own mental well-being.
There are studies that show that the abuse in screen time (3 hours or more) can cause difficulties in sleeping resulting in a decrease in our mental and physical capacities.
The use of social networks becomes an addiction when we lose control over its use and develop a constant need to have access.
The temptation to keep checking the cell phone reduces our general productivity. People do not focus or perform in the same way in school or at work as before. Not only is an enormous amount of energy and time spent on them, it can also be mentally and emotionally exhausting.
The impact of social networks on mental health is a reality that must be assumed.
It is very important to be aware of how long we are on the screen and above all to be honest about the effect it has on us.
By becoming aware of the advantages and disadvantages of using the networks, we will be able to use them in a healthier and more moderate way.
If you feel emotionally affected at some point due to social networks and want specialized help You can get in touch with a Nuna therapist in our directory.
