In a world where our biggest influences are edited pictures from some of the best times in people’s lives, it is easy to fall into the trap of self-depreciation and the constant ‘why me?’ question. It’s important to remember that everyone has a struggle they are going through even if it doesn’t seem like it. 

With the increase in social media use in younger people, many people have noticed an increase in negative thoughts along with the disruption in activities like school and sleep. 

According to Mayo Clinic, “A 2019 study of more than 12,000 13- to 16-year-olds in England found that using social media more than three times a day predicted poor mental health and well-being in teens.” 

Social media can be addicting just as some are addicted to sugar or worse substances like drugs. Constantly checking in on social media to see what one’s classmates and favorite stars are up to, it is easy to begin to judge your day on the experiences they claim to have.

“One study found excessive use of social media, particularly features like “likes” and “comments,” can activate the release of dopamine, sometimes called the “pleasure chemical,” similar to opioids or cocaine,” said Senate RPC. “This addiction can have severe consequences. A decade-long study found that as the time teen girls spent on social media goes up, so does their long-term risk of suicide.”

On the other side of the spectrum, teens that feel the need to post a lot and share their life on social media – many times to try and validate the fact that they are enough, find themselves later regretting their posts as it can lead to the sharing of private things and bullying.

“Because of teens’ impulsive natures, experts suggest that teens who post content on social media are at risk of sharing intimate photos or highly personal stories. This can result in teens being bullied, harassed or even blackmailed,” said the Mayo Clinic.

By realizing the harmful impacts social media can present, one is better able to take a step back and assess the grasp platforms like Instagram have on their life. Even though an adolescent’s life heavily relies on social media platforms to get their daily information, it is vital we do not let it take over our emotions and dictate our worth.