Denisa David

Social media has become such a massive part of our daily lives that it’s hard to imagine a time before scrolling, liking, and sharing became second nature. Whether it’s Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, or Twitter (now X), we’re spending hours each week interacting with our phones, connecting with others, and keeping up with the latest trends. But have you ever noticed how these apps seem to have a double-edged effect? On one hand, social media keeps us connected in ways that would have been unimaginable even a couple of decades ago. On the other, there’s growing concern about how it impacts our mental health and overall well-being.

The effects of social media on mental health are complex, with both positive and negative sides. Feeling a bit down? Scrolling through endless photos of other people's “perfect” lives can make things feel worse. But if you’re feeling good, watching funny videos or sharing moments with friends online can be uplifting.

The Positive Side of Social Media

To start with the positives, social media can be a fantastic tool for connection. For people who might feel isolated or live far away from friends and family, social media provides a way to stay in touch and feel less lonely. Social media lets them find each other, share advice, and offer support. In that way, it can actually boost mental health by providing a sense of community and understanding.

Plus, social media has become a powerful platform for raising awareness about mental health itself. People are much more open about discussing topics like anxiety, depression, and stress, which can help break down the stigma that’s often attached to these issues. This openness can make individuals feel less alone in their struggles and more likely to seek help if they need it. Many influencers and mental health advocates use their platforms to spread positivity, self-care tips, and resources for those who may be struggling, making social media a potential source of encouragement and education.

The Downside of Constant Comparison

However, it’s no secret that social media also has some significant downsides, especially when it comes to mental health. One of the biggest issues is the tendency for people to compare themselves to others. When we scroll through photos of celebrities, influencers, or even our own friends, it’s easy to get caught up in the “highlight reel” of other people’s lives. We see the best moments—vacations, career successes, relationships, flawless selfies—and that can make our own lives seem less exciting or fulfilling by comparison. This “comparison trap” can lead to feelings of inadequacy, low self-esteem, and even depression.

Social media platforms are designed to capture our attention and keep us engaged, but that constant flow of content can leave us feeling overwhelmed. Research has shown that excessive screen time and constant checking of social media can disrupt sleep, which is critical for mental health. When we’re tired, it’s even harder to process emotions in a healthy way, and everything—from minor disappointments to social pressures—can feel a lot heavier.

FOMO and the Pressure to Be “Always On”

Another negative aspect is the concept of FOMO, or “fear of missing out.” Seeing friends post about events or activities can make us feel like we’re missing out, even if we wouldn’t have attended otherwise. This feeling of FOMO can lead to anxiety, and a sense that we need to be constantly plugged into what’s happening to avoid missing anything. This is especially prevalent among younger users, who might feel pressured to keep up with every trend, meme, or viral video.

The pressure to be “always on” and constantly connected can also make it difficult to relax. For some, social media can even feel like a second job—keeping up with messages, posting updates, and tracking the latest posts to avoid “falling behind.” This kind of pressure isn’t healthy and can lead to burnout. People feel compelled to present a curated version of themselves, one that’s flawless, exciting, and free from problems, which often doesn’t reflect real life at all. The result? Anxiety and the feeling of being “not good enough.”

Social Media and Body Image

One of the most discussed impacts of social media on mental health, particularly among younger people, is the effect on body image. Platforms like Instagram, where appearance is often emphasized, contribute to body dissatisfaction. Filtered and edited images create unrealistic standards of beauty, and it’s easy for users to start feeling like they don’t measure up. Studies have linked this constant exposure to “idealized” images with issues like body dysmorphia, low self-esteem, and unhealthy behaviors around eating and exercise.

Setting Boundaries for Better Mental Health

So, with all these ups and downs, how can we use social media in a way that protects our mental health? First, it’s important to set boundaries. Limiting the amount of time spent on these platforms each day can prevent the negative effects of too much screen time. Many people find it helpful to unfollow accounts that make them feel bad about themselves or that focus on perfection, and instead follow accounts that promote positivity, humor, or valuable information.

Taking occasional breaks from social media help us to reset our brains, reduce stress, and improve sleep. During these breaks, known as a “digital detox”, we can spend more time doing things that truly nourish us – like exercising, spending time outdoors, or catching up with loved ones in real life.

Ultimately, social media isn’t “good” or “bad” for mental health—it’s all about how we use it and what boundaries we set. When used thoughtfully, it can connect us, entertain us, and even inspire us. But it’s important to stay aware of its potential downsides and to take steps to protect our well-being. By being mindful of how social media makes us feel and taking steps to prioritize our mental health, we can enjoy the best parts of these platforms without letting them take a toll on our happiness.

 

Denisa David  - Ofensiva Tinerilor, RO.