Top 6 Negative Consequences of Social Media Use
In 2023, over 75% of people in the United States report using social media “regularly.” The average daily use is almost 2.5 hours per day, which equates to roughly 38 full days per year. With some adolescents, that number may be considerably higher. In addition to the simple time-of-day issue where productivity, energy, presence, and experiences can be hindered, here are the top 6 negative impacts social media has on its users:
Social comparison: Social media platforms often present idealized versions of people's lives, with carefully curated posts and images. Constant exposure to these highlights can lead to social comparison, where individuals compare themselves to others and may feel inadequate or anxious about their own lives. Remember the old saying: “Comparison is the thief of joy.”
Cyberbullying and harassment: Social media platforms can be breeding grounds for cyberbullying, trolling, and online harassment. Being subjected to negative comments, criticism, or personal attacks can significantly impact an individual's mental well-being and contribute to anxiety. This isn’t to mention the platform social media gives to predators who may be able to pursue victims with ease and relative discretion.
Information overload: The constant stream of news, opinions, and updates on social media can be overwhelming and contribute to information overload. This overload can heighten anxiety by exposing individuals to a barrage of negative or distressing content. Remember, every single piece of information known to humans is in our pocket at all times. This has significant effects on our ability to be present. This information is oftentimes inaccurate, which creates a separate set of issues.
Unrealistic body image and self-esteem issues: Social media often emphasizes physical appearance, leading to the proliferation of unrealistic beauty standards. Regular exposure to images promoting idealized body types can negatively impact self-esteem, body image, and trigger anxiety-related concerns as well as eating disorders.
Social isolation and loneliness: Ironically, social media can lead to feelings of social isolation and loneliness. Spending excessive time on social media platforms can reduce face-to-face interactions, real-life connections, and contribute to a sense of disconnect from others, which can exacerbate anxiety. It can negatively impact interpersonal, problem-solving, and conflict management skills which are critical in the real world.
Dissociation: Withdrawing into our phones and social media is a common coping mechanism for stress or discomfort. Teaching our brain to dissociate from challenging situations is a slippery slope that can lead to the development of more severe mental illnesses such as Derealization, Depersonalization, or a myriad of other dissociative disorders.
Moderation, conscious use, and setting boundaries are essential to manage the potential negative impact of social media on anxiety.
