Social Media and Mental Health: Finding Healthy Balance in the Digital Age

Understanding how social media affects mental health and maintaining a healthy digital life balance.

The Double-Edged Sword of Social Media

Social media connects us and provides support, but can also contribute to anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem.

Negative Effects

• Comparison and envy
• FOMO (Fear of Missing Out)
• Sleep disruption from late-night scrolling
• Decreased in-person connections
• Cyberbullying exposure
• Information overload and stress

Positive Aspects

Community building, access to support groups, staying connected with distant loved ones, awareness raising, creative expression.

Healthy Social Media Habits

Set Time Limits: Use app timers. Curate Your Feed: Follow positive accounts. Disable Notifications: Reduce interruptions. Practice Mindfulness: Be intentional about usage. Take Breaks: Regular digital detoxes. Engage Authentically: Comment meaningfully vs. passive scrolling.