7 Tips for Using Social Media for Mental Well-being
- February 03, 2023
- Patients and Families, Healthy living for mental well-being, Public awareness
Social wellness, a measure of connectedness with family, friends and community, is key in influencing happiness and positive mental health1,2. Research has shown social connection to be a protective factor against a host of mental health and social media use, the research is unclear2,5. Some studies suggest the difference hinges on how users interact with these platforms and whether they engage with them in a mindful manner1,2. For example, researchers have found loneliness increases when people use social media to escape from social interactions or when people use social media when they are around friends or family.
However, when social media is used to enhance existing relationships and forge new social connections it can help reduce loneliness1. Some research has found social media especially helpful for reducing loneliness among older adults2. These platforms can be used to share information and ren social connections when face-to-face interaction isn’t possible, as happened during the COVID-19 pandemic
The conflicting science is still “sparse and controversial2,” and even public opinion is torn. Respondents to a January 2022 ) Healthy Minds Monthly poll from the American Psychiatric Association (APA) reported feeling positive emotions while using social media. Four in five reported (80%) reported feeling “interested,” and 72% feeling “connected and happy” when they use social media6. Conversely, nearly two-thirds of respondents said (63%) overall social media does more harm than good. In addition, among diverse populations, Hispanic adults were more likely than Black or white adults to feel stressed, worried and depressed while using social media.
For many of us, it is undeniable that social media and the networks we build through it are a significant part of our lives. It is increasingly important to curate these spaces to enhance optimism, positive self-image, connectedness, and the reduction of stigmas. Cultivating positive social media habits can prime us for social wellness, enhance belonging and potentially strengthen protective factors against mental health disorders.
Tips for Positive Social Media Use for Mental Wellness
- Follow hashtagsof topics, places, activities, nutrition, art and music or other things that motivate and ground you such as #mindfulness #selfcare #bodypositivity, #dailypoet etc.
- Repost, share and engage with posts that are uplifting, rooted in gratitude or celebration.
- Research among Facebook users has shown evidence of emotional contagion, meaning that emotions expressed by others on Facebook can influence our own, whether in a positive or a negative direction3.
- Utilize social media as an outlet for creativity and self-expression. Follow accounts and hashtags for communities of artistic endeavors that inspire you or help you grow as an artist.
- Focus on your real friendsand maintaining connections, versus voyeurism which can increase feelings of loneliness and inadequacy.
- Live your life. Remember that internet use should not displace offline activities, only enhance your social connections.
- See tips on controlling your social media use from APA.
- Be analytical and selective about the information you consume and share. Evaluate the source, content and credibility of research or reporting and investigate information before you share. It is vital to be a smart consumer and understand and verify what we see online before we react to it and spread it.
- Conduct a privacy checkupon your social media platforms so you are aware of what information is being shared with whom. Most applications and sites have privacy and security settings in their preferences or account menus.
