Several studies have shown, that our average daily screen time has zoomed past 6 hours (even 7 hours in some countries), with a majority of this screen time largely being spent on random scrolling through social media. We come across all sorts of content- fashion, lifestyle, memes, political, provocative, societal, and much more. And more often than not, this random scrolling makes us question ourselves. Thus begetting the question, is your feed fuelling your anxiety?
This is the same place where people come to express themselves, the same place where we talk about the importance of mental health. One of the major concerns is the constant comparison that social media can perpetuate. We are always exposed to people’s “perfect” lives that make us question if we’re doing something wrong? The constant pressure of looking perfect, matching society’s beauty ideals, giving into things we do not usually see ourselves doing, is overwhelming and contributes to a percentage of reasons that causes anxiety, depression and body image issues in some of its users.
There is also the issue of cyber-bullying. The same place that gave people a platform for self expression, has become a nexus of being cyber-bullied. If someone has a “flawed” nose or any part 0f their body, the internet is the first place to call them out and make them feel bad about themselves. The constant pointing out of perceived flaws in ones appearance leads them experience a range of negative emotions, including shame, embarrassment, and depression and body image issues.
Social media is also a platform known for its filters that can make you look different and the society’s definition of “pretty”. It alters your nose, eyes, lips. The unrealistic beauty standards portrayed in heavily edited images can lead to feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt. This has also caused a high demand in cosmetic surgeries.
It is a complex tool with both positive and negative implications for mental health. While it can provide a sense of connection and community, it can also contribute to harmful comparisons, cyberbullying, and unrealistic beauty standards. To mitigate these negative effects, it is essential to use social media mindfully, set boundaries, and prioritise self-care. By understanding the potential risks and taking proactive steps to protect our mental well-being, we can harness the benefits of social media while minimising its drawbacks. It is on us to decide if it is the cause of our mental health worries.
