Mental Health & Social Media
Motivation & help
Social media offers incredible benefits – finding new friends, networking, enjoying great content, tutorials, and much more. However, it’s also a double-edged sword. Many negative aspects can impact our lives and mental health.
Especially when there are problems in your private life / school / work, you can really fall into a vicious circle. And sometimes it’s not so easy to get out of it. Especially then it is important to take the necessary time and pay attention to what you consume.
For your information: I am not a doctor or a psychologist. But many of the points have affected me myself.
I would like to share my experiences with you and give you some new perspectives. But in the end, every person is so individual that there is no “one-size-fits-all solution”. If you have extensive problems, it is always advisable to consult an expert.
What is Mental Health?
“Mental Health” refers to the state of one’s psychological well-being – yours included! It encompasses aspects like emotions, thoughts, and behavior, as well as the ability to cope with stress, maintain relationships, and navigate daily life. It’s crucial to prioritize your own mental health and seek support when needed to lead a fulfilling life.
Reality (How Self-Image Gets Distorted)
On social media platforms, we tend to portray our lives in a certain light – often the best light. However, behind carefully chosen filters and seemingly perfect snapshots often lies a distorted reality.
For instance, someone who constantly posts luxurious travels and expensive gifts may actually be struggling with financial issues or feeling unhappy. This distortion can lead us to question our own lives and appearance, even though reality is far from it.
This often happens to me too. I find myself questioning what’s “wrong with me” or what “mistakes” I’ve made in life. Unnecessary doubts, because it’s entirely natural for everyone to have ups and downs. At the end of the day, it’s up to each individual to decide what they want to share on social media.
Tip: Try to be more mindful of your social media usage by remembering that others’ posts often only show a small fraction of their lives. Imagine what life behind the pictures might look like, and remember that everyone has their own challenges.
Comparison Trap
Constantly comparing ourselves to others on social media can lead to harmful levels of self-criticism. When we constantly compare ourselves to the seemingly perfect dolls, images, or even lives of others, we often feel inadequate or inferior.
For example, someone who constantly sees others’ successes may begin to diminish their own achievements, even though they’re actually making great progress. Comparison can undermine our self-esteem and hinder us from appreciating our own successes.
“Why aren’t my face-ups / doll pictures as great as XY’s” – a thought I’ve often had myself. Due to excessive self-doubt, one can hardly see their own progress, even devaluing it or losing motivation.
“Why should I even bother doing XY when nobody cares anyway.” Everyone walks their own path at their own pace! In creative endeavors, there’s no right or wrong!
Tip: Focus on your own progress and achievements instead of constantly comparing yourself to others. Consider others’ successes as inspiration and motivation rather than a measure of your own capabilities.
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There is no right or wrong when it comes to creativity!
Stay True to Yourself
It’s important to remain authentic and not lose yourself while scrolling through the world of social media. Even when the pressure is high to adapt or meet others’ expectations, it’s crucial to stay true to yourself.
For example, someone passionate about their art may feel the urge to conform to a current trend to get more likes. However, true fulfilment often comes from authentically showcasing what truly defines us. And, ideally, we all want to find our “own style,” right? Experimenting and discovering new ideas is crucial for this process. Inspirations are equally essential.
It’s always much easier to inspire others for something if you’re convinced of it yourself.
Tip: Identify your own values and passions and stick to them, even if it’s sometimes challenging. Ask yourself if what you share or follow online truly aligns with your own interests and values.
Especially when you’re engaging privately, you have even more freedom to show, share, and do what you want. After all, you don’t have a product to sell or need to monitor the market.
Stay at Your Own Pace
In the hectic world of social media, there’s often pressure to always become faster and bigger. But this constant competition for attention and recognition can impair our mental health. For example, someone trying to keep up with constantly changing trends may feel stressed and overwhelmed. It’s important to remember that personal growth and success should happen at a healthy pace that suits our individual needs.
Often, one quickly loses sight of how long others have been pursuing a hobby. Of course, they work and progress at their own pace.
Tip: Set clear goals and work at your own pace towards them instead of letting external expectations drive you. Recognize that personal growth takes time and that it’s okay to progress slowly as long as you keep moving forward.
Because you know: No master fell from the sky.
No One is Perfect
On social media, we tend to share only the best aspects of our lives, creating the impression that others are perfect. But the reality is that nobody is perfect, and each of us has our own challenges and insecurities. For example, someone who constantly posts flawless pictures may actually struggle with low self-esteem. It’s important to remember that perfection is an illusion and that it’s okay to be imperfect.
I’m often too self-critical myself. As a result, I often dwell too much and long on “problems” and get in my own way. In the end, everyone can decide how much attention and time to invest in an imperfect picture. It’s important to accept your mistakes and strive to do better next time.
Tip: Practice self-compassion by allowing yourself to make mistakes and be imperfect. Remember that most people have their flaws and insecurities, and that it’s entirely normal not to be perfect.
Nobody is perfect – This saves a lot of trouble and time! I think it’s time to celebrate small things and “normalize” when someone doesn’t live in a mansion, constantly travel or live a completely luxurious life.
Be Kind and Understanding to Yourself
Nowadays, it’s easy to judge yourself too harshly and criticize yourself. But self-love and self-compassion are crucial for our mental health. For example, someone who made a mistake may berate themselves and get caught in a negative thought cycle.
It’s important to treat yourself with kindness and understanding, just as you would with a loved one. Take time for yourself and never forget that you’re a great and talented person. Everyone makes mistakes.
I’m often too hard on myself, and the negative thoughts literally demotivate me, and I get caught in a vicious cycle.
Tip: Develop a positive inner voice by giving yourself loving and supportive messages. Treat yourself as you would treat a good friend and acknowledge your own needs and feelings.
Set Boundaries
In a world that never sleeps, it’s important to set clear boundaries to protect our mental health. Someone who’s constantly on social media, constantly engaging with the latest news and trends, may find that this affects their ability to relax and unwind. It’s important to set time limits for social media usage and also to take breaks offline.
You don’t have to be available 24/7
It’s okay if you don’t respond to all messages immediately or are constantly “up to date.” I know the feeling very well – you don’t want to be left behind. For example, I haven’t taken any “commissions” or custom orders in my shop for several years now. I simply can’t afford the time, and it only stresses me out unnecessarily. It’s uncomfortable to say “no,” but essential for a healthy lifestyle.
Tip: Define clear boundaries and allow yourself regular offline time to rest. Recognize that you have the right to protect your well-being and energy and that it’s important to respect your own boundaries.
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Self-Protection on Social Media
Sometimes it’s necessary to reconsider the type of content you’re exposed to on social media. If certain posts or accounts regularly trigger negative feelings or stress, it’s important to protect yourself and take active measures. It’s not a weakness to unfollow content or people that negatively impact your mental health. On the contrary, it’s an act of self-care and self-respect.
Tip: Unfollow without feeling guilty accounts whose content makes you uncomfortable or affects your mental health, such as content that burdens or triggers you. Your health and well-being should always be top priority.
Recognize that it’s entirely normal to change over time and that it’s important to part ways with content that no longer suits you.
You’re Not Alone
Even though it may sometimes feel that way, you’re not alone in your struggles.
Many people around the world share similar experiences and feelings.
For example, you might feel uncertain about whether you’ll achieve your goals while looking at others’ apparent successes. It’s important to remember that it’s entirely normal to go through ups and downs, and that there’s support available when you need it.
Tip: Seek support and engage in discussions with others, whether online in communities or offline with friends and family. Remember that it’s normal to sometimes feel uncertain or overwhelmed, and that seeking help is a sign of strength.
Conclusion
Social media can often be really scary, can’t it? As many benefits as it has, your wellbeing and health are paramount. Try to incorporate one or two of the tips I suggested into your everyday life! I hope that some things will be a little easier for you, also with the background thought that many people feel the same way. Like me too.
It’s good to be determined or to have a certain routine, but you really shouldn’t overdo it. In the long run, it’s simply not healthy to force yourself to do something. Especially when things are chaotic in your private or working life.
Remember: time-outs are extremely important. Switch off completely and leave your smartphone behind. Because there are so many beautiful moments waiting for you! Listen to your inner voice and your body.
No one will be angry with you if you don’t comment or write directly. Everything to a certain extent!
Personally, I try not to check my social media accounts at all at the weekend.