MENTAL HEALTH AND SOCIAL MEDIA - Ms. FAREEZA FARHEEN S / I M.Sc Psychology - MKJC

MENTAL HEALTH AND SOCIAL MEDIA

INTRODUCTION

Social Media has both advantages and disadvantages. While social media has many benefits, such as connecting people and providing a sense of community, it also has a significant impact on mental health. Social media has become an integral part of modern life, with billions of people around the world using platforms like whatsapp, snapchat,  Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

POSITIVE IMPACT OF SOCIAL MEDIA ON MENTAL HEALTH 

1. Social support: Social media can provide emotional support and connect people with others who share similar experiences and struggles.

2. Community building: Social media can help people build and maintain social connections, which is essential for mental health.

3. Access to resources: Social media can provide access to mental health resources, such as online therapy sessions, support groups, and educational content.

NEGATIVE IMPACT OF SOCIAL MEDIA ON MENTAL HEALTH 

1. Cyberbullying: Social media can be a breeding ground for bullying and harassment, which can have serious negative effects on mental health.

2. Comparison and envy: Social media platforms showcase the highlight reels of other people's lives, leading to unrealistic comparisons and feelings of inadequacy.

3. Sleep deprivation: Exposure to screens and the constant notifications from social media can interfere with sleep patterns, leading to sleep deprivation and related mental health issues.

4. Anxiety and depression: Social media use has been linked to increased symptoms of anxiety and depression, particularly in young people.

5. Unrealistic expectations: Social media can create unrealistic expectations and promote consumerism, materialism, and the pursuit of perfection.

WAYS TO OVERCOME THE IMPACT OF NEGATIVE EFFECTS OF SOCIAL MEDIA: 

1. Set boundaries

2. Practice self-compassion

3. Seek real-life connections

4. Take breaks

5. Seek professional help

Establish limits on social media use, such as setting aside device-free time or days. Treat yourself with kindness and compassion, and avoid self-comparison. Treat yourself with kindness and compassion, and avoid self-comparison. Regularly take breaks from social media to reduce exposure to potential negative effects. If social media use is negatively impacting mental health, consider seeking help from a mental health professional.

CONCLUSION:

 While it can provide social support, community, and access to resources, it can also contribute to cyberbullying, comparison, anxiety, depression, and unrealistic expectations. By being aware of these potential effects and taking steps to mitigate them, individuals can promote healthy social media use and protect their mental health. Remember that Social media has both positive and negative effects on mental health. While it help to gain knowledge and remember to set boundaries.


 A Blog By

Ms. Fareeza Farheen S

I M.Sc Psychology

MKJC

 

 

 

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