Social media ∝ Mental health?
How many times have you got deeply influenced on seeing people exercising during lockdown? Did it push you to start working on your body? Did you ever ask yourself whether you really want to do it or was just going with the flow in order to have a picture/video to be uploaded on any social media platform?
Are you also facing FOMO (fear of missing out)?
Found in a study, social media usage increases depression and loneliness. According to a report by the Royal Society for Public Health in the U.K., almost 1500 young adults (14–24 years old) suffered from mental health issues related to loneliness, anxiety and depression, self-identity, bullying, sleep, body image, real world relationships, and FOMO. The race for visual perfection is heading towards the promotion of “ a ‘compare and despair’ attitude” when one compares his/her day-to-day life and makeup- free face with the flawless selfies and amazing vacations which one see on their feed.
From my personal experience, I have come across people who don’t know what they “like”, they just “like” every post popping in their feed. Is that “like” being excluded by the app? Also, there is a concept of “like-for-like” which is very common these days. People are happy “liking” and receiving “likes”. There are people who want to show off how lavish their lifestyle is because #lavish is trending. Boozing or partying at hookah bar is the #newcool among teenagers. And how can one miss the smoke rings.. that’s the soul art!!
According to a survey, YouTube is the only app to have a net-positive effect on the viewers. It doesn’t cause anxiety, FOMO or sleepless nights.
Having hourglass body or excellent makeup skills doesn’t make you perfect. Real perfect isn’t only virtual. If you find yourself odd, try switching over to hashtags like #lovemyself, #blackisbeauty, #lovemyshape, #bellybutmine, #oddlysatisfying… and you will definitely feel better.
P.S. Having a healthy and prosperous life is what one must crave for because this is raw and real. And that’s exactly what your inner self needs. Do whatever it takes to achieve this. “Likes” will fade away but “you” are for “yourself” forever.
With love,
Neha
