SOCIAL media has become a vital part of our everyday lives in the digital age, particularly for students navigating the ever-changing world. Platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok are more than just spaces for social interactions; they also serve as venues for learning. How one uses social media can significantly impact relationships, academic goals and personal wellbeing. The ongoing debate has always been whether social media does more harm than good for students.
Social media’s selective content can encourage a culture of comparison which may harm students’ mental health. Receiving likes and comments on social media might unintentionally affect a person’s self-esteem. Students must approach social media platforms carefully as they navigate this online world. A balanced positive relationship with the online world is ensured by appreciating positive aspects while being aware of the possible drawbacks.
Exploit the benefits of social media by navigating and connecting with people and using the resources it provides while being mindful of its impact on your mental health. The growing use of social media among young people raises questions about potential drawbacks.
Perversely, Rosen et al.(2013) discovered that participants who spent more time online and frequently censored their social media photos had more severe symptoms of serious depression. Frequent usage of social media, according to Lou et al. (2012), is a predictor of increased isolation among American university students. Additionally, Kalpidou et al. (2011) found that undergraduates who reported having more Facebook friends had a worse time emotionally adjusting to university life.
Social media enables interaction and the development of new relationships. These relationships in comparison are frequently more formal and fleeting. Users of social media frequently lack meaningful connections with the acquaintances they make online. In comparison to relationships formed through direct interaction with friends and family those formed through these means cannot be compared. Overusing social media in the opinion of 59% of students has a negative effect on relationships with friends and family. Owusu Acheaw and Larson (2015) contend that relying only on social media to establish and sustain relationships might result in hopelessness, loneliness and depression. Smartphone makes it harder for friends and family to interact in person, which may undermine the value of the time spent developing these relationships and psychologically isolate people from one another.
The quality of sleep is unaffected by social media consumption alone. Instead the amount of time spent using Smartphone during the day or night as well as their mode and purpose have an impact on how well you sleep. Complications from excessive social media use including mental health conditions and inactivity may also have an impact on sleep quality.
—The writer is a Psychologist based in Islamabad.
