Social Media – A Drug

At some point, we all a suspicion that are we addicted to social media or not? The Social Dilemma, a recent documentary broadcasted on Netflix, more or less, confirms this suspicion. However, that’s not a significant part of the film.

What left me startled was the intention that social media addiction isn’t unintentional out-turn, instead of a well-prepared objective. Turns out, all these years, it has been manipulating us, and we didn’t even realize.

Checking and Scrolling through social media already was a popular activity for everyone, whether a teenager or an older adult. It is increasing every minute, especially during the lockdown. It is addictive, both physically and psychologically.

According to a study by Harvard University, social networking sites light up the same part of the brain that also ignites when taking an addictive substance. Thus using these networking sites is as additive as taking drugs.

Some research also suggests an undeniable connection between social media use, adverse mental health, low self–worth, comparing oneself with another, low self-esteem, and many other problems like this. A person addicted to social Media is more prone to get depression, anxiety, and other mental health related issues. It opens the door to a territory in which people are juxtaposing their real offline selves to the flawless, filtered, and polished online versions of others, which can be harmful to mental well-being and self-observation.

Despite being aware of these negative impacts of social media, teen social media use continues to rise. Teen peer pressure is an issue of social media overuse. Popular websites used by teens are –

1. Snapchat
2. YouTube
3. Instagram

Social Media Overuse is a grave issue globally; how can we overcome it?

It is having an increasingly damaging impact on humanity and life. If you feel like you’re addictions towards it is escalating day by day, The documentary is a warning bell why it is necessary to step away from scrolling now and then.

Here are some ways to overcome overusing Social Media –

1. Turn Off your Notification

As notification is a constant reminder that something is happening online every time, you might feel like you’re missing something.

When you limit notifications disturbing you now and then, you might find it easier to concentrate on your daily routine.

2. Limit Yourself

Set a timer. Watch. To limit the amount of time you spend on the phone. Limit Yourself depending upon your level of addiction. It will be a substantial test of your will power.

3. Get a Hobby

You may have a lot of time. Get a hobby that does not include your phone, and that new hobby will keep your mind preoccupied when you’re craving for social media.

4. Make using social media a treat

Only allow screen time when you’ve done something productive. It all will a substantial test of your willpower and Self- Control.

5. Last but not least, in fact, the most important one.

Do watch the documentary The Social dilemma and Read about how it impacts our brain and transforms the way we think. When you know about something’s cons, it gets slightly more comfortable to stay away from it.

Written by Ishita Singh.