In the modern world, it is easy to state that social networks are integral to our daily lives. They amuse us and teach us. But at what point does the bond cease to be something wholesome and turns into something compulsive and negative? The overuse of social media is a vice of the twenty-first century that affects individuals’ mental well-being in various and often unforeseen ways. Keep reading to explore the correlation between social media addiction and mental health conditions and learn the price of being connected all the time.
How Does Social Media Addiction Impact Mental Health?
Social media platforms are made to be addictive. With endless scrolling, constant notifications, and the thrill of getting likes, they draw us in and make stepping away from our screens challenging. Many people ask how social media addiction impacts mental health:
- Increased Anxiety: The pressure to be constantly available and responsive can heighten anxiety levels.
- Depression: Comparing oneself to the seemingly perfect lives portrayed online can lead to feelings of inadequacy and depression.
- Sleep Disruption: Late-night scrolling interferes with sleep patterns, affecting overall mental well-being.
Roughly 210 million people in the world may have an addiction to the internet and the use of social networks, which raises the concern of many psychologists.
Understanding Why Social Media Addiction Impacts Mental Health
While “social media addiction” isn’t listed in the DSM-5, we can’t ignore its impact on mental health. Here’s how it can affect mental health:
- Dopamine Rush: Just like with substance addiction, getting a like or a comment releases dopamine, which makes us want to keep engaging in that behavior.
- Withdrawal Symptoms: Anxiety and irritability when unable to access social media.
- Neglected Responsibilities: Getting hooked on social media can cause us to procrastinate and overlook our real-life responsibilities.
Reality Check: The Social Media Mirror
While social media can help us connect and build relationships, it often amplifies our worries.
Comparing ourselves to the curated images we see online can lead to self-doubt and anxiety. The impact of this can be significant.
- Body Image Issues: Constantly being shown ‘ideal body images’ can become problematic and result in a breakdown in self-image, primarily for adolescents.
- Cyberbullying: Negative interactions, including cyberbullying and abusive harassment, lead to further deteriorated mental health.
- Isolation: Many people now socialize from a distance through social media, which can make some feel disconnected from the social scene altogether.
Balancing the Social Media Addiction Impact on Mental Health
Tackling social media addiction takes real effort and some changes to our everyday lives. Here are some practical steps to reclaim your mental health:
- Set Boundaries: Only use social media at certain hours of the day.
- Digital Detox: Periodically use time off from social media activities.
- Mindful Engagement: Spend your time online engaging in quality, not quantity, activities.
- Real-Life Connections: Active and meaningful friendships away from computers for people who can socialize.
- Self-Care: Engage in stress-relieving activities, including journaling or yoga.
- De-friend/De-follow: It is wise to periodically evaluate all your social media accounts and purge them of any accounts that are not beneficial to you.
- Mute Notifications: Switch off the notifications for these apps so that they do not tempt you to look into them often.
- Try New Hobbies: Find pursuits outside of social media that you will enjoy and be satisfied with.
- Seek Support: If social media is too hard to let go, and friends or family are not helping, consider that a professional might help you. There is no shame in that.
Seeking Help for Social Media Addiction
If you or someone you know is struggling with social media addiction, remember that help is available.
At SEE Purpose Treatment Center, we understand that addiction and mental health are complicated issues. Here’s how we support our clients:
- Comprehensive addiction treatment philosophy
- Detox programs tailored to individual needs
Various therapeutic approaches, including:
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Group therapy
- Family therapy
We provide personalized care in a clinically managed environment to ensure everyone gets the support they need.
Find Your Purpose at SEE Purpose Treatment Center
Nestled on several acres of tranquil land, our drug and alcohol rehab facility is designed for restoration and relaxation. Enjoy delicious meals, unwind by the swimming pool, or engage in fun activities like billiards and ping-pong. Our cozy client lounge is a welcoming space where you can relax and connect with others on a similar journey.
If you’re struggling with mental health issues related to social media, please reach out to us. At SEE Purpose Treatment Center, we’re here to help you find balance in your treatment. Remember, the most critical step in discovering your purpose is simply asking for help!
