Checking social media is a compulsion for many of us. These urges often negatively interfere with our lives. Due to social media’s prevalence, new anxiety disorders are associated with the use of these online platforms and in extreme cases considered an addiction. Here are some tips to help you navigate social media use with less negative impact on your mental health.
Healthy Balance
It’s easy to spend hours on social media looking at funny memes, watching YouTube videos or even checking out the newest updates on our friends’ timelines. Due to its addictive nature, many individuals exercise, sleep and even communicated face-to-face less. Self-care activities are essential to your mental health. Establish a schedule which limits your time on social media and incorporate self-care activities such as relaxation, proper sleep, nutrition, and exercise. Make sure to spend time with friends and loved ones face-to-face.
Limit your screen time
A University of Pennsylvania study found that when college students only spent 30 minutes on social media they felt better. The participants experienced a decrease in anxiety, depression, loneliness and the fear of missing out. Putting boundaries on your social media use will translate to elevated mood and being more present.
Pay attention to your mindset and thoughts
When scrolling social media it can be very easy to compare. Keep in mind we often put our best face online and exclude the struggles. Instead of focusing on the positive things others have going for them, focus on the good things in your own life. “The grass is greener where you water it.”
Words can hurt (especially kids)
Pay attention to your words as well as what is being said to your children. Monitoring your children’s social media usage is also imperative since youth are more at risk for being bullied online. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that one-third of all middle schoolers are bullied online. Similarly, 30 percent of high schoolers also suffer from cyberbullying.
Many social media sites have started acting against cyberbullies. For instance, Instagram recently launched a new feature allowing you to flag comments that might be considered offensive. The app asks the user if they are sure they want to post the comment. It gives the user a chance to reflect on their comment before posting. Practice this yourself since it is easier to write mean things than to say it to someone’s face. Encourage your children to do the same.
Social media can have a negative effect on your life but it doesn’t have to. By implementing these tools and restricting usage, you take charge of your mental wellbeing. Make your mental health a priority and consider taking a break from social media to see how it will positively benefit you.