Social media is fun, entertaining, and a great way to connect with people from your past, family members, and network. But how many times have you picked up your phone to check one thing but end up scrolling for hours? That scrolling can affect your mental health without you even realizing it. We can sometimes see people’s relationships, vacations, careers, and accomplishments, and we start questioning our own lives.
The issue is we’re comparing our lives to someone’s 1-minute highlight reel or post. This increases depression, anxiety, and impulsive behavior. We don’t see the bad days, arguments, economic struggles, insecurities, or anything that happens behind the camera. We only see what they want us to see. And when you’re someone who is already struggling with their own self-esteem and self-image, you’re constantly reminded of everyone else’s highlight reel, and consuming their lifestyle can make you feel like you’re inadequate or inferior.
Putting your phone down for a little while is necessary. To start, maybe you can try an hour or an evening and then eventually an entire day. Go enjoy life, spend time doing extracurricular activities you haven’t had time to do, or do something that focuses on your self-care and well-being. Sometimes our minds don’t need to consume more information; they need to slow down from processing and be at peace.
If you would like to speak to a professional counselor about any pressing issues or other related mental health concerns, our counselors provide a safe, welcoming, and supportive environment for individuals seeking guidance and support so please feel free to contact Olive Branch Counseling Associates, Inc. at 708-633-8000. We are located at 6819 167th St., Tinley Park, Illinois 60477. Our facility provides in-person as well as telehealth sessions. We consider it an honor to be of service.
Reference:
Harvard Summer School. (2023, August 28). Need a break from social media? Here’s why you should and how to do it.
https://summer.harvard.edu/blog/need-a-break-from-social-media-heres-why-you-should-and-how-to-do-it/
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