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Social Media is now an integral part of our lives - both professional and personal. From spreading information, interacting with people, sharing memes to now running a business, we have come a long way with social media. And let’s not forget that social media played a huge role in helping us survive the lockdown! Social media is a combination of technology and humanity. With that being said, social media has an enormous impact on a person's emotional and mental health.
Possibilities on social media are endless and despite all this, social media has its own dark side. Being socially connected can ease stress, anxiety, depression and boost self-esteem, provide joy and also reduce loneliness to an extent. But the flip side of social media is that if you lack a positive, strong connection or let social media takeover your life, it might take a negative toll on your mental and emotional health.
The positive side of social media
Social media is meant to make our lives easy, entertaining and engaging. People can connect with one another and keep up with our friends and family. Through social media one can create awareness about a cause, speak up about the things that need to be addressed and lots more. It has become an outlet for people to bring out their creative side and share with people. Social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Snapchat and more have given chance to multiple undiscovered talents out there.
The negative side of social media
Ironically, a technology that is meant to bring people closer, spending too much time on social media, can actually make you feel more lonely and isolated - even lead to anxiety and depression. Even we know that the pictures shared online are manipulated and despite all that we do feel insecure about our appearance. Similarly we are all aware that people tend to only show the highlights of their lives and not their low points that everyone goes through. We still believe what we see online and start comparing our lives by seeing what other people are upto. The idea and false belief that you’re missing out on certain things haunt you and make you feel worthless. This side of social media makes you question your self-esteem and abilities, triggers your confidence and anxiety. Bullying on social media is as harsh as any kind of bullying. About 60% of teens around the world have been bullied or harassed online. Many other users are also subjected to hurtful or offensive comments.
How to make social media a better place?
Appreciate people who put in efforts in creating or trying something new. A single appreciation message can boost a person’s confidence and make his day better.
It's important to have a personal connection with people that is beyond just commenting or liking each other's post. Do keep in touch with people regularly on their well-being and have a bond that is more real and personal.
Do not pass judgments! It is good to have an opinion but there is a fine line between constructive criticism and a judgment. People do get hurt by mean comments even though it may not be intentional. One must be careful while commenting on someone’s post or sharing thoughts on the same.
Avoid cyberbullying. Cyberbullying is one of the main reasons why one person tends to have low self-esteem, anxiety and depression. Even a single negative comment can affect a person’s mental and emotional health. Be nice to people and mostly be there for people!
Create engaging, entertaining and informative content. We see many challenges and fun collaborations on social media that are trending today. This is a good way in order to keep your users engaged and spread positivity.
Speak up on matters that are important for the community. Social media is a platform to spread knowledge and raise our voices on matters that need to be heard.
Don’t compare yourself to others or doubt your ability by seeing what others are up to in life. You will be where you’re meant to be in life or otherwise.
Avoid seeing it as a competition, rather be happy for the people and encourage them. Social media is a place where people must learn to coexist and not compete.
Lastly, it is very important to spend more time offline with your family and friends. The year 2020 has been rough but we must be empathetic and be there for the ones who really need us.