Social Media and Mental Health: The 4 Dangers

Over the past 10 years, social media has erupted into our lives to the point of no return. We’ve moved from a life reliant on texts and emails, to a society that broadcasts every moment for the world to see. So what are the implications of social media and mental health?

For ordinary people and businesses alike, social media has many incredible advantages which keep us returning to our favourite platforms, day in, day out. But there’s also a darker side to social media – one which undoubtedly puts our mental health at risk. In this article, we’re going to explore the hidden dangers of social media, and decide whether the pros outweigh the cons. 

Mental health and social media 

It’s no secret that we’re suffering a mental health crisis in the UK and beyond, but is social media to blame? Studies suggest that it might well be, especially for younger audiences. Even considering social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram that promise to connect us, excessive use of these apps have been linked to feelings of isolation, loneliness and depression. But how can this be?

1. Influencer culture and the plague of comparison 

Influencers are public figures who have built a platform through social media and blogging sites like Youtube, Instagram, and TikTok. These public figures essentially make a living by documenting their lives, as well as all the products, goods and services they consume within it.

Whilst using influencers is an extremely lucrative way of marketing your business through sponsored posting, the concept itself has been linked to the damaging effects of social media. 

More and more young people are aspiring to become influencers themselves, looking up to these figures who live aesthetically perfect lifestyles online. In recent years, there has been an effort to show the more ‘realistic’ side to the influencer life, but that hasn’t stopped thousands comparing themselves to this unattainable model of perfection.

As a result of exposure to such accounts on a daily basis, more and more people are falling victim to the plague of comparison. Forced to view photos of perfect bodies, perfect houses and perfect lifestyles, there’s little room left for being happy with our own lives offline. 

2. The chaos of social media advertising

Another damaging aspect of social media on our mental health is the bombardment of advertising that we face as soon as we log in. When used responsibly, social media advertising can be an integral tool for reaching wider audiences and boosting your engagement, especially for newer businesses. 

However, the growth of advertising online has had a range of negative effects for those using the sites in a more casual way. For many, the influx of adverts shown on a daily basis can create a lot of pressure to purchase goods they might not necessarily need. When the social media environment is already causing increased feelings of depression and damaged self-esteem, the appeal to buy more in an act of validation becomes much more attractive. 

Businesses utilising social media advertising should take this into account, using the right style of messaging for their target audiences with accurate information. Loyal customers are created through genuine interest, not as a result of impulse purchasing!

3. Social media as a distraction from real life

As social media has grown in popularity, our usage has increased. Social interaction is essential for wellbeing and positive mental health of course, but does online socialising count? To an extent, communicating over social platforms can be a great way to connect with the people you love, especially if you’re too far apart for in-person meetings. However, spending too much time in front of a screen has been proven to negatively impact mental wellness. 

Life is all about balance, and finding that can be tricky. When we’re glued to our phones, we lose time that could be spent exercising, taking part in hobbies we enjoy, or seeing the people we love. While spending some time online can be beneficial, in most cases it will wreak havoc with our mental state.

4. The rise of cyberbullying and the internet troll

We’ve all heard of trolls by now, right? Cyberbullying has been around since social media began, and trolling is just the most recent version of it. Thanks to the power of anonymity, it’s all too easy for people to create fake accounts and let their opinions be heard, even if they’re harmful to others. Influencers and celebrities are the usual target, but normal people are being increasingly trolled online too. 

The standard advice is to block and report, but with words having such an immediate  and long-standing impact, is that really enough? Many are living in fear, often subject to verbal abuse and even threats to their lives. It’s no wonder social media is seen as a catalyst for poor mental health when this is the environment many login to find. 

The answer? Use social media in a healthy way 

All in all, there’s an extensive list of things to be aware of when it comes to the dangers of social media on our mental health. For those using social media as a tool for business, it’s essential to use it in a way that places value in your customers’ mental wellbeing while growing your brand. 

For the individual, it’s important to consider whether the accounts you’re following actually make you happy. Looking at perfect bodies, faces and lifestyles is addictive, but are you really enjoying it? Cleanse your timeline with a follow detox once a month. Engage with accounts that make you feel good about the way you are – not those that make you want to change it.

If you want to learn how to craft meaningful and positive messages for your followers on social media, get in touch!

what are the dangers of social media for mental health