Is the social media the real cause of anxiety in the modern society?
Social media has become an integral part of our daily lives. Social media has undoubtedly brought the world closer together, enabling people to connect ,and share information in ways that were once unimaginable, and has had a positive impact on many people’s lives . But the social media has also become the root cause of the mental problems in the today’s times. Unfortunately, the social media has led to a sudden rise in the mental health problems like anxiety, depression and other issues with the never- ending craze of social media activities.
Why social media induces anxiety?
It’s common for people to use social media as a way to present a curated version of their life that showcases their best moments and experiences. This can include sharing photos of luxurious purchases, highlighting exciting plans for the weekend, or showcasing their social status and connections. The desire to show off the highlights of our lives is a natural human impulse, and social media provides an easily accessible platform to do so. for some people, social media can serve as a temporary escape from the challenges and stresses of their daily lives. However, the constant exposure to images of others living a seemingly perfect life can also lead to feelings of inadequacy, envy, and anxiety . It’s not uncommon for people to compare themselves to others on social media and feel like they are not measuring up in terms of wealth, success, or happiness. This can be particularly difficult for those who are already struggling with personal or financial challenges. While social media can provide a temporary distraction, it’s important to be mindful of how it’s affecting our mental health and to take steps to manage feelings of anxiety or inadequacy that may arise from comparing ourselves to others online .
A study surveyed a group people belonging to 19–32 age group to determine the impact of the social media on the mental health of the individuals. It was found that the more number of hours, the people are spending time on the social media, they are more prone to depression https://doi.org/10.1002%2Fda.22466 [1].
However, it’s important to remember that the reality of people’s lives is often much more complex and nuanced than what is presented on social media. It’s essential to be mindful of our own social media habits and to approach the content we see with a critical eye to avoid falling into the trap of comparing our lives to the idealized versions we see online .
How can you get rid of the anxiety?
While getting professional help can be incredibly beneficial, ultimately the power to change lies within yourself. It’s important to search within yourself to find the motivation and determination to make the changes you desire. While others can guide and support you along the way, the decision to change and the effort required must come from within. It’s about finding the inner strength and willpower to make positive changes in your life .
1. Meditation
Meditation is the easiest remedy to get rid of the mental health problems. All you need to do is activate the chakras in your body to flush out the negative emotions from your system. Ensure to meditate at least 10–30 minutes in a day for a peaceful soul. According to Harley Pasternak, a celebrity trainer and author, meditation is an effective method for managing anxiety and stress . By focusing on your breath ,and clearing your mind, you can decrease the impact of negative thoughts and emotions .
2. Celebrate small things in life
It’s important to take time to celebrate the achievements in your life, no matter how big or small they may be. Even if you can’t afford to throw a big party with your friends, you can still find ways to mark the occasion. For example, you could spend time pursuing a hobby you enjoy or simply spend quality time with your loved ones. By doing this, you are training your mind to focus on the positive and find joy in everyday moments. Celebrating your achievements, even in small ways, can help you cultivate a sense of happiness and fulfillment in your life .
3. Elevate your fitness level and eat right.
Taking care of your physical fitness can be a powerful tool for reducing anxiety and stress in your life. One way to start is by setting achievable fitness goals for yourself and working hard to accomplish them. Regular exercise can help release endorphins, which are natural chemicals that boost your mood and reduce feelings of stress and anxiety.
In addition to exercise, paying attention to your diet is also important. Try to eat healthy, nutritious meals and avoid fast food, which can be high in calories, unhealthy fats, and sugar. Eating a balanced diet can help you feel better physically and mentally, giving you more energy and reducing feelings of stress.
By focusing on your physical fitness and making healthy choices, you’re taking proactive steps to improve your overall wellbeing and reduce anxiety. Remember to be kind to yourself and take things one step at a time — even small changes can make a big difference in how you feel .
Here’s what Dr. Drew Ramsay, MD at Professor at Columbia University has to say, check out the video link. https://youtu.be/ILRqYb4ZPrk
Final Verdict
Social media is a great weapon for connecting with world where the people can share their new thoughts and experiences. But the people fail to understand that the social media is just a small piece and not the entire cake. Everything that comes on social media not just reflects the reality of life. So, there is an emergent need for you to prioritize your life and happiness ,and not how much followers you have gained on the social media. Alternatives like exercise, laughing and mediation can help you achieve this easily .
