Social Media and Its Effects on Mental Health

Introduction

• Host: Randy Gay, Office of Communications, McGovern Medical School, UT Health.
• Guest: Dr. Jennifer Barman, Assistant Professor, Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences.
• Topic: The impact of social media on minds, relationships, and society.

Reasons for Social Media Use

• Connection: Helps connect with loved ones, especially during pandemic times.
• Meeting New People: Dating apps and reconnecting with old friends.
• Reducing Loneliness: Fosters relationships and community, particularly for marginalized groups.
• Information Access: Source for news and entertainment.

Social Media Addiction

• Not officially recognized as a diagnosis by the American Psychological Association.
• Similar to behavioral addictions (e.g., gambling).
• Dopamine release from likes and engagement leads to compulsive use.

Impact of Algorithms

• Algorithms prioritize eye-catching and relevant content.
• Can lead to repetitive exposure and impulsive spending through targeted ads.

Comparison and Self-Esteem Issues

• Social media influences can create unrealistic comparisons leading to dissatisfaction, anxiety, and potentially suicidal thoughts.
• Influencer Facades: Many influencers present a curated life, which may not reflect reality.

Positive Use of Social Media

• Sharing mental health experiences can reduce stigma and foster support.
• Connecting with others can provide encouragement during difficult times.

Productivity Concerns

• Social media can distract from important tasks, affecting focus and productivity.
• Notifications and alerts can disrupt workflow and attention.

Digital Burnout

• Increased screen time leading to fatigue (e.g., Zoom fatigue).
• Physical effects: eye strain, headaches, and posture issues.

Cyberbullying

• Definition: Bullying through electronic means (texts, social media).
• Permanence: Content remains online, making it difficult to escape.
• Accessibility: Bullying can continue remotely, affecting mental health.
• Adult Cyberbullying: Occurs through online trolls and negative comments.

Addressing Cyberbullying

• Do Not Respond: Engaging can worsen the situation.
• Reporting: Report to authorities and social media platforms.
• Support: Be an ally to those affected, and help connect them to resources.

Spending and Consumer Behavior

• Social media encourages impulsive spending due to ease of transactions and targeted ads.
• Microtransactions in apps and games can lead to excessive spending.

Mitigation Strategies for Spending

• Setting a budget for online purchases.
• Keeping track of spending and deleting saved payment information to reduce impulse buys.

Major Dangers of Social Media

• Human Trafficking: Platforms can facilitate dangerous interactions.
• Misinformation: Spread of false information from unverified sources.
• Harmful Communities: Some groups can lead individuals toward extremist ideologies.

Building Healthy Social Media Habits

• Turn Off Notifications: Reduce distractions and compulsive checking.
• Track Usage: Monitor time spent on social media to avoid excessive use.
• Social Media Breaks: Take regular breaks from platforms to reset.
• Parental Guidance: Monitor children's use and discuss healthy habits.

Maintaining Positive Self-Image

• Be mindful of what content is being consumed.
• Focus on personal accomplishments and gratitude.
• Recognize that social media often presents an altered reality.

Importance of Presence

• Encourage face-to-face interactions by putting phones away during personal moments (e.g., meals).
• Build relationships based on real-life interactions rather than just online presence.