How to Combat the Impacts of Social Media on Mental Health

Studies have suggested that there is a strong connection between social media and mental health. Even without looking at the science, you may notice differences in your behavior, mood, and thoughts when you spend a significant portion of your time in Clearwater engaging on social media.

Social media can help to connect people to one another, but it can also make people feel even more distant and isolated than ever. With millions of different influences and pressures swirling around social media platforms, it’s no surprise that these activities can severely impact our moods for the worse. 

Here are some of the things you can consider to help combat the impacts of social media on your mental health. 

Be Aware

The first step is being aware of the negative impact that social media is having or could have on your mental health. When we are aware of a potential problem, it’s easier to take further steps to combat the negative impacts. Rather than wondering about why you’re feeling a certain way after viewing content or listening to something negative, it will be easier to pinpoint what the problem could be. 

Avoid Comparisons 

One of the reasons why social media can have such a negative impact on mental health is because it often encourages comparisons between people and their lives. Millions of people make a regular income on social media by showcasing their lives and flashy lifestyles to their followers. Other people may post regularly on social media in a way that does not accurately reflect their real life behind the camera. Be mindful of this and avoid making comparisons between yourself and other people. 

Take a Break 

Some people refer to this as a social media “detox” since it can help to cleanse your mind from the day-to-day impacts of social media engagement. There are many ways you can take a break from social media, and you don’t have to cut yourself off entirely from all your favorite social media networks. Try limiting the time you spend on social media each day or setting yourself a few days to spend completely away from the internet. If you’ve never done this before, it could be a chance to see if it makes a difference to your mental health and whether this is something that could benefit you in the longer term. 

Actively Engage 

When you scroll endlessly through social media posts without interacting with anybody, it can create a spiral of comparisons and negative thoughts. When you start to engage positively with the posts and photos shared by others, this can create a more genuine sense of social connection. It may also encourage others to reach out to you or engage in more positive content. Being more intentional about engaging actively and positively on social media can help to create a change in your life and the lives of others. 

Speak to Someone 

If you feel like social media or other activities are impacting your mental health, consider talking to someone about it. You can speak with trusted friends and relatives or consider visiting a professional therapist or counselor for additional support. Having a regular outlet and getting the extra support you need can help to boost your well-being and encourage a healthier relationship with social media. 

Finding Help in Clearwater

People looking for professional mental health support can visit reputable mental health centers such as TMS Advantage Clearwater or mental health transitional living housing costa mesa ca. Speaking to somebody about the things that are negatively affecting you can put you on a clearer path to better mental health and well-being.

Ivan Brandt