Impact of Social Media on Mental Health

TDT | Manama

Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com

Have you ever felt anxious or stressed after scrolling through social media? You’re not alone. Social media is designed to keep us hooked, but it often comes with a hidden toll on our mental health.

While platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter help us stay connected, they also expose us to a constant stream of curated content — perfectly edited lives, achievements, and adventures. This can trigger feelings of ‘comparison’, anxiety, and even depression.

You might have found yourself scrolling through posts of friends’ vacations or work promotions, only to feel like you’re falling behind. This also leads to what’s known as FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) — that nagging feeling that everyone else is living a more exciting, fulfilling life. And it’s easy to get caught in the trap of comparing your real life to others’ highlight reels, but this constant comparison can take a toll on your self-esteem.

Take Sarah (client name changed) for example. A busy working mom, Sarah started using social media to stay in touch with friends and keep up with news. But over time, she noticed a shift. Each time she scrolled, she felt anxious and insecure. She’d compare herself to others, thinking their lives were more exciting or successful. This constant comparison began to affect her self-esteem.

If Sarah’s experience sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Social media is powerful, but it doesn’t have to control how we feel. Here are a few simple ways to protect your mental health while using social media:

1. Set Boundaries: Limit your time on social media. Try setting daily time limits or designate specific times for checking your accounts.

2. Curate Your Feed: Follow accounts that inspire or uplift you. If something makes you feel bad about yourself, it’s okay to unfollow it.

3. Take Breaks: Give yourself a “digital detox.” Unplug for an hour each day, or take a day off once a week to reset.

4. Check In With Yourself: Before scrolling, ask yourself how you’re feeling. Are you doing it to relax, or are you feeling anxious?

Social media can be enjoyable and helpful, but it’s important to use it mindfully. If you ever feel overwhelmed, remember that seeking support is always an option. Your mental health is important, and small changes can help you regain control of your digital life.