Social Media and Mental Health
Social media is an ever present force in the lives of moderns teenagers. It is difficult, if at all possible, to find someone of high school age that is not involved in one form of social media or another. However, research on the affects of this new form of communication is scarce and often contradictory.
Due to its recent development and ever changing nature, it is difficult to research social media, how it functions, and how it affects its users. The findings of preliminary studies are filled with unknowns, but hold interesting results.
Some studies show that social media can be good for lower stress levels because it can be a great way to vent about stressful situations. Additionally, these post are often met with support from friends and family that can sympathize and help the individual. However, for those scrolling through their feed, this cacophony of stressed voices may lead to increased levels of anxiety. This is one reason that social media is often linked to high levels of anxiety. Most studies on the subject have established a strong correlation between frequent use of social media and anxiety, though it is hotly debated on what causes this trend.
Social media, and technology in general, most definitively affects the sleep habits of users. Many studies have been done that show the use of technology before bed can dramatically decrease the quality of the sleep. This likely plays a role in the many other mental health effects felt by users of social media.
Overall it is obvious that the excessive use of social media can be extremely harmful. However, if used correctly and in moderation it can be a great resource for those that are going through rough times. More research is needed to correctly identify how to use social media beneficially and just how much is too much.
