Ahead of World Mental Health Day on Monday 10 October, I was invited by Belfast Telegraph Weekend edition to contribute to a feature article on “Top Tips On How To Mind Your Health & Well-Being”.
Research published in January 2022 indicates 84% of the UK population use social media with the average person spending 1 hour and 48 minutes accessing it daily, writes Ashleigh Watson, owner of Copper Square Communications, social media consultant and the founder of annual conference Social Media Savvy.
With more choice than ever before, including Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube, Pinterest, Snapchat and TikTok it can be overwhelming.
Social mcan be a great tool to keep us connected with friends and family, the brands we love, what’s happening in our local community and the world beyond without ever having to leave the sofa.
We can find new places to visit and explore, discover new ideas and concepts. Think recipes, exercise routines, the latest hack to save money, the benefits go on.
But it can also be a dark place too; the recent case of the circumstances surrounding the tragic death of 14-year-old Molly Russell bringing the dangers of social media into sharp focus.
The constant stream of content (good and bad), the instant “hit” of dopamine and gratification prompting people to constantly refresh their newsfeeds.
The self-judgment that comes with a lack of likes causing negative thoughts, social anxiety and worry that you’re not just as popular as everyone else, not to mention nasty comments and opinions and a feeling of always having to be “on” showcasing your best life.
What does that even mean? In the real world that could mean finding balance in life, reaching a heightened state of calm and serenity. On Instagram, for example, it is often something different. A selfie pout, a holiday in far off places, a great meal, cocktails!
Appearances can be deceptive though. It can be so easy to think others are more beautiful, better off, have more exciting lives when that is rarely the case.
Following are five tips to help you reclaim some social media sanity:
- Remember social media isn’t always a true representation of what is really going on. Your life, feelings and opinions are just as valid as anyone else
- Set a time limit. Take a break from scrolling. Reducing time spent on social media allows you to focus on other things you enjoy and gives perspective
- Pause before you post. Your actions have consequences. Comments and posts leave a digital footprint. Would you want your employer to read them? Think of the consequences of your content. Are you breaking rules or policies, how will it impact on other people?
- Turn off notifications to reduce pressure and take back control
- Encourage young people to take a break, engage in other activities, monitor the content they are consuming especially if they become withdrawn or there are mood changes.
You can read the full article in the Belfast Telegraph Weekend edition here.
