‘Social media can cause depression, anxiety and even physical ailments’

(helpguide.org)

As someone who relies heavily on social media for business, it may not be that wise for me to be writing about this!

However, it’s not social media itself, it’s our relationship to it and how we manage not just social media but all the apps and everything else that is constantly pinging at us and wanting our attention.

Social media also has lots of benefits too.

We are designed to be social creatures and the strength of our connections and relationships have a huge impact on our mental health and happiness.

Being socially connected to others can:

 ease stress, anxiety, and depression

 boost self-worth

 provide comfort and joy

 prevent loneliness, and even add years to your life.

On the flip side, lacking strong social connections can pose a serious risk to your mental and emotional health.

While each has its benefits, it’s important to remember that social media can never be a replacement for real-world human connection.

It requires in-person contact with others to trigger the hormones that alleviate stress and make you feel happier, healthier, and more positive.

Spending too much time engaging with social media can actually make you feel more lonely and isolated—and exacerbate mental health problems such as anxiety and depression, which can then lead to physical ailments, often gut health issues due to stress.

If you’re spending an excessive amount of time on social media and feelings of sadness, dissatisfaction, frustration, or loneliness are impacting your life, it may be time to re-examine your online habits and find a healthier balance.

Do you find yourself being easily overwhelmed, isolated or just irritated by being online too much?