Excessive Social Media Use

Have you ever found yourself mindlessly scrolling through one news article after another, unable to truly recall what most of the articles were about? Maybe you remember a piece on job loss in the retail field, even though this data doesn’t pertain to or serve you. Perhaps you have caught yourself on one of the many social media platforms watching video after video or scrolling through images of pranks, makeup routines, and memes and suddenly two hours have gone by. I wonder if you have ever gone through lists of friends on one of those social media platforms and compared yourself to them? They have such beautiful kids, their house looks so nice, and they look so happy!

The behaviors stated previously are not only un-productive, but unhealthy.  Research has proven that excessive social media use is directly linked to an increase in anxiety and depression. Users can unconsciously find themselves comparing themselves to other users, social media stars, and celebs on these platforms. The worst part is that many of these photos and videos have been photoshopped, or even produced completely by artificial intelligence (AI). Users may also begin to seek validation through their use of social media in response to how many “likes”, a photo or status that the user posts receive. Unfortunately, these behaviors have become quite common amongst younger users.

While there are benefits to social media use, such as sharing information and connecting with friends, it is important to limit usage so as the use is not to one’s detriment. How to limit your social media usage depends on how much you use it. If you use it excessively, perhaps try cutting it down to a few times a day, with timeframes of less than an hour. If you are looking for a challenge, try deleting the app you use the most for a week and see how you feel at the week’s end. Instead of using social media, you might enjoy going for a walk, calling up a friend or family member, or picking up, dare I say it, a book!

If you would like to speak to a professional counselor or psychologist about social media use and reside in Illinois, please contact Olive Branch Counseling Associates, Inc. at 708-633-8000. We are located at 6819 West 167^th Street in Tinley Park, Illinois 60477.

Hillary R.,

Masters Level Intern, 2024

Sources –

Deering, S. (2023, May 19). How “Doomscrolling” impacts your mental health-and how to stop. Verywell Mind. https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-doomscrolling-5088882

Hearsch, D. (2023, May 26). Social Media and Mental Health. Skyland Trail. https://www.skylandtrail.org/mindful-social-media-use-for-mental-health-recovery/?gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAiAopuvBhBCEiwAm8jaMQMKoDHTmxXWLnlol5fm_ryDATGaR8OqX-CCk4dCF3NY5YJokNmWhBoCjpsQAvD_BwE