We often demonize social media for dumbing us down, reducing our attention span, and promoting unhealthy habits. But it (and the Internet as a whole) has positive effects on our mental well-being as well. That is, as long as we use it and connect with people mindfully. A Harvard University study explored this phenomenon.
When we use social media routinely, say, check our feeds once or twice a day and respond to what others have posted, it contributes to our social well-being, self-rated health, and better mental health. When we're checking our social media accounts obsessively, it gets trickier. We don't feel the same social fulfillment, start feeling worse about ourselves, and our mental health deteriorates in general.
What can we do to avoid it? The authors of the study claim that self-regulation is key. As Nathan Brandon, Psy.D., told us in a previous interview, we should curate our online experiences so that we don't feel overwhelmed.
"This involves actively choosing to follow accounts that align with your values and unfollowing toxic or triggering content," he explained. "It can also be beneficial to turn off notifications for news stories that may create anxiety so you can read them when you're ready rather than being bombarded with them throughout the day."
"Practicing mindfulness about how you consume online content can help to manage feelings of overwhelm or stress," he went on, echoing what the authors of the Harvard study claimed. "Taking breaks, setting time limits, and engaging in self-care activities offline can also help maintain a healthy balance between online and offline life. It's vital to prioritize self-care and offline activities that bring joy and fulfillment."
Dr. Brandon also told us back then that a 'digital detox' period can be very helpful. "Designate certain times of the day or specific days of the week as screen-free, allowing time to reconnect with the physical world and engage in activities like reading, [exercising], or spending time in nature," he suggested to our readers back then.
Socializing and finding support in community was another factor Dr. Brandon emphasized for a positive online experience. And some people may find it in online spaces. In fact, the co-author of the Harvard study, Mesfin Awoke Bekalu, said that social media "may compensate for diminishing face-to-face social interactions in people's busy lives."
However, there is also research that contradicts this. A 2018 study found that socializing and being around people makes us more satisfied with our lives. You might think that chatting on Discord or in the comments here under this post might have the same effect. But not quite. As Social Psychologist Alexander Danvers, Ph.D., told us before, in-person socialization is more beneficial.
