Introduction
In the modern era, while technology has provided countless conveniences to human life, social media has given a completely new dimension to social connections. Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok and other platforms have turned the world into a global village. However, along with this convenience, many dangerous aspects have also emerged, the most prominent of which is the negative impact on mental health.
Social Media: An Overview
Social media is a collection of online platforms where people express images, videos, thoughts and emotions. These platforms have become an important source of entertainment, information and social connections. But their excessive use is having a profound impact on the human mind.
Although the topic of this article focuses on the negative effects of social media, it is fair to mention some of its positive aspects as well:
Increased social connections
It has become possible to stay in touch with friends and loved ones living in remote areas.
Exchange of education and information
Online classes, educational videos and academic discussions have made the learning process easier.
Business opportunities
Job opportunities have become available to the youth in fields such as freelancing, e-commerce and digital marketing.
But despite these benefits, excessive and unbalanced use of social media is causing various mental problems.
What is mental health?
Mental health does not just mean being free from mental illnesses, but it is a state in which a person recognizes his or her abilities, is able to cope with the pressures of life, works constructively and establishes better relationships with others.
Negative effects of social media on mental health
1. Feeling of inferiority and loss of self-esteem
Most people on social media only show the positive aspects of their lives. Beautiful photos, achievements, expensive things, moments of travel and entertainment… Seeing all this, others start to feel their lives are unsuccessful and colorless, which creates a sense of inferiority and loss of self-esteem.
2. Feeling of loneliness
Although social media is apparently a means of connecting people, the reality is that many people suffer from loneliness despite having numerous “friends” on it. Lack of social interaction and emotional support in real life makes a person lonely and depressed.
3. Depression and Anxiety
Research has shown that excessive use of social media, especially among young people, leads to problems such as depression and anxiety. Constantly waiting for notifications, likes and comments, a person is under a strange mental pressure.
4. Sleep disorders
Social media is usually used more at night, when a person wants to rest. The blue light emitted from the mobile screen stimulates the brain, which disrupts sleep. As a result, mental and physical fatigue increases.
5. Waste of time and loss of productivity
Waste of time on social media is a common problem. Scrolling for hours, watching unnecessary videos, chatting aimlessly—all these tire the mind and affect a person’s constructive ability.
6. Cyberbullying and Psychological Pressure
Rudeness, sarcasm, criticism, and negative comments on social media often put young people under deep psychological pressure. Especially those young people who are less mentally mature are deeply affected by such attacks.
7. Competitive tendency
There is a “competition” going on on social media: Who is more beautiful? Who has more followers? Whose post got more likes? All of this gives rise to mental anxiety and jealousy.
Youth and social media
The young generation is the biggest user of social media. This is the age when a person’s personality is being formed. The unrealistic standards, false achievements, and fake lives on social media have a negative impact on them. They develop a lack of self-knowledge, frustration, and anxiety.
The role of parents, teachers, and society
To reduce the mental effects of social media, parents, teachers, and society should take the following steps:
Encourage children to use it in a balanced way.
Encourage real-life social interaction.
Provide mental health awareness.
Teach proper use of time.
How to create balance in social media use?
1. Set a fixed time
Allocate a specific time for social media daily.
2. Stop using mobile before sleep
Turn off mobile at least an hour before bed.
3. Prioritize real relationships
Prioritize face-to-face meetings with friends and loved ones.
4. Keep yourself busy with useful activities
Spend time on activities like studying, exercising, learning skills and worship.
5. Avoid negative content
Do not follow pages, people or content that cause mental distress.
Conclusion
Social media is a powerful tool, which if used correctly can prove beneficial, but if used in moderation and unconsciously, it can drain a person mentally, emotionally and socially. Social media should be made a part of life, not the whole of life.
