The Social Media Dilemma: Connection or Isolation?

There’s been lots of research on the impacts of social media on mental wellbeing, however, not enough to establish a clear connection thus far.  With many researchers identifying the current and potential benefits of social media use in the context of mental health, research findings have also raised concern on the potential consequences. So, what exactly are the impacts? And how do I know whether social media is affecting me negatively? Together we’ll explore some key findings and suggest some ways to increase the likelihood of social media being used as a positive tool for your mental wellbeing.

Limiting Social Media Use

An abundance of research has identified patterns in social media use, with reports that social media content with negativity, such as mean comments, spreads more rapidly than positive content. One study focused on Twitter, and reported that while mental health stigmatising content was rare, it was the most re-tweeted, showing how quickly harmful content travels on online platforms.

Other researchers have found links between heavy social media use and mental wellbeing. One study compared individuals using 2 or fewer social media platforms, to those using 7-11 platforms and found those using more platforms were 3 times more likely to experience symptoms of depression and anxiety.

With this in mind, limiting our exposure to harmful content on social media and limiting how many social media platforms we use, may very well be a positive step towards preserving our emotional wellbeing whilst still maintaining online social connection.

Social Media Envy

Some research has identified Social Media Envy as being a risk factor for increasing anxiety and depression. This envy is often a result of feelings of inadequacy that arise when people compare their lives to the curated and often idealised online profiles of others. This risk may be enhanced when additional risk factors around our social lives are also present. For example, people who struggle with trusting others and have a history of poor family functioning may be at greater risk of experiencing symptoms of depression, or even social media envy.

To mitigate this risk, consider individual therapy to improve personal self-esteem and follow social media accounts that bring you joy. Whether it’s funny cat videos or posts related to your personal hobbies, having your feed full of positive content that makes you feel fulfilled may be a safeguard from social media use negatively impacting emotional wellbeing.

Social Connectedness

Individuals living with mental health challenges typically have fewer social connections in the offline world, and often experience higher rates of loneliness compared to those living without mental health issues. Interacting online may be easier for those living with mental health challenges as they can protect themselves from stigmatisation. Online peer supports can also help people living with mental illness connect with others and share experiences and ways to cope. Despite these benefits, there are also risks such as increased chances of bullying and the spread of misinformation. Furthermore, if social media is replacing face-to-face interactions, this could lead to increased sense of loneliness and worsened mental health symptoms.

Therefore, it is important to ensure you’re still engaging in face-to-face interactions where possible, instead of relying solely on online connections. Following social media accounts run by licensed mental health providers can also act as a shield to protect from misleading or incorrect mental health support.

Sources:

Social Media Use and Its Connection to Mental Health: A Systematic Review - PMC

Social Media and Mental Health: Benefits, Risks, and Opportunities for Research and Practice - PMC