The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health

Today, nearly everyone is active on social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, or X. While social media and technology has transformed the world, there are some risks that come with being active on social media and in some cases it can take a tole on one’s mental health.

Over the years there has been an increase of the amount of teens on social media. Statistics show that teens spend around 5 hours a day on social media. This statistic raises some concerns because of the negative impact that social media can have on adolescents. One concern is the pressure that comes with one’s body image. As girls go through puberty, they often become more self-conscious about their bodies. With the rising influence of celebrities and social media influencers undergoing appearance-altering surgeries, many young girls feel the societal pressure to conform to unrealistic body standards. These pressures can contribute to issues like eating disorders, anxiety, and even depression.

There is also the dangers of not knowing who is real and who isn’t on social media. Studies show that between 40-50% of teenagers reported talking to strangers online. This can lead to teens confiding in strangers and ultimately oversharing at times. Believe it or not there are many predators online that target adolescents and there are not many protective measures in place on social media to prevent this. This is why it’s so important for parents to monitor their kids social media activity, this is not a matter of invading one’s privacy but protecting your child from the dangers of social media.

As a society, we must work toward making social media a safer space for everyone—teens and adults alike. If you come across content that is inappropriate, harmful, or offensive, take action by reporting it. Together, we can create a more positive and responsible online community.