Cell Phones & Social Media: The digital impact
Cell Phones and Social Media: The Digital Impact
By: Marissa Pollet
In today's digital age, it's nearly impossible to imagine life without our smartphones and social media accounts. Technology has revolutionized the way we connect, share, and communicate with one another. However, beneath the surface of glossy smartphones lies a darker truth: our excessive use of cell phones and social media platforms can take a serious toll on our mental well-being.
The Urgency Epidemic:
24/7 Connectivity: With smartphones constantly at our fingertips, we're expected to be reachable and responsive at all hours of the day. It happens to all of us, you are going about your day and a text, or phone call comes in and although it may not be ideal to respond, the sense of urgency kicks into high gear. Thoughts such as “I have to answer this immediately, what will the person on the receiving end think if I wait too long to respond?” This relentless connectivity leaves us feeling overwhelmed and unable to disconnect, leading to heightened stress levels and burnout.
Instant Gratification: Social media feeds into our need for instant gratification, rewarding us with likes, comments, and shares that trigger a temporary dopamine rush. However, this constant pursuit of validation can breed feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem when our posts don't garner the desired attention. We live in a very transparent world where sharing our most treasured or private moments is often displayed for all to see and react to accordingly. Maybe you finally took the vacation you have been dreaming of and instead of living in the moment, your thoughts are consumed with sharing the most perfect photograph of yourself highlighting your whereabouts and checking social media accounts for validation.
Fear of Missing Out (FOMO): Scrolling through feeds filled with highlight reels of other people's lives can fuel FOMO, making us feel like we're missing out on experiences and opportunities. This fear drives us to constantly check our phones, fearing we'll miss something important, further contributing to anxiety and stress. The need for the scroll factor also fuels the desire to make sure your cell phone is within reach. The constant accessibility of having your device within an arm’s length increases your ability to continually check what you “could be missing.”
The Pressure Cooker:
• Comparison Culture: Social media platforms often serve as breeding grounds for comparison, as we measure our lives against the carefully selected snapshots of others. This constant comparison can lead to feelings of inadequacy, jealousy, and resentment, as we strive to keep up with lofty standards set by influencers and celebrities. The culture of comparison is a very slippery slope, especially for youth who are unable to grasp the notion that what they are viewing may not be reality. The images are often altered by a team of professionals who are able to create perfection and showcase it for all to see and aspire to obtain.
• Unrealistic Expectations: From picture-perfect bodies to extravagant vacations, social media bombards us with unrealistic expectations of what our lives should look like. As a result, we may feel pressure to conform to these ideals, even if it means sacrificing our mental and emotional well-being in the process. It is important to remember that your life should not be compared to what you view on social media as the grass is not always greener on the other side, rather “it is how you water it where you are standing.”
Finding Balance in the Digital Age:
Set Boundaries: Establish clear boundaries around your smartphone and social media usage. Designate tech-free zones and times, such as during meals or before bedtime, to prioritize face-to-face interactions and quality downtime. Setting boundaries for yourself also models appropriate behavior for younger children in the home. If you are able to stay consistent during designated times, it allows you to unplug and reconnect with those around you as well as focus on the here and now.
Practice Mindfulness: Cultivate awareness of your thoughts and feelings as you engage with technology. Take regular breaks to check in with yourself, practicing mindfulness techniques such as deep breathing or meditation to ground yourself in the present moment. Take some time to follow social medial accounts that promote mindfulness or relaxation.
Take Control of Your Feed: Take control of your social media experience by following content that uplifts and inspires you. Unfollow accounts that trigger negative emotions or feelings of inadequacy. Remember that you can help control what you are exposed to on social media. Many accounts are uplifting and can encourage you as well as provide “feel good feelings.” Seek out the pages that you want to see and eliminate the negative ones. If controlling your feed isn’t helping, maybe it’s time to designate your account inactive and rejoin the social world after you have the time to recharge mentally.
Seek Support: Don't hesitate to reach out for help if you're struggling with the impact of cell phone and social media use on your mental health. Whether it's confiding in a trusted friend or seeking professional therapy, remember that you're not alone in this journey towards greater well-being. Be sure to check on younger individuals who are privy to cell phones and monitor their usage as well as provide support if they are struggling.
A Digital Existence
Cell phones and social media have undoubtedly transformed the way we interact with the world, it's crucial to recognize their potential negative effects on our mental health. By maintaining a balanced relationship with technology and prioritizing our mental well-being, we can gain control over our digital lives and create a healthier, happier existence.
Our team of caring professionals at Inspired Wellness are here to provide support and guidance towards your path of mental wellness. We believe that every individual has the ability to be the best version of themselves and our goal is to set you up with the tools to maintain a well-balanced life that will place you on the path towards lifelong change. We strive to create a non-judgmental environment coupled with therapeutic practices that are tailored towards each individual. At Inspired Wellness our team aims to do exactly as our name says, inspire you towards a beautiful life of strength and wellness!