Social media usage has been growing among teens. While it was originally created to be a tool to connect one another, it has grown into something that is causing many negative effects. The constant use of and abuse of social media is causing things such as:
- Depression and anxiety
- Constant comparison to others resulting in the feeling of inadequacy
- Isolation
- Cyberbullying
- Self-absorption
- Increase in suicidal thoughts and suicide
- Exposure to inappropriate content
- Loss of sleep
- Social media addiction
In an effort to break some of these negative trends, here are some alternatives to try to lessen the use of social media.
- Turn off notifications
- Delete social media apps for a week (or more)
- Leave your phone at home
- Schedule face-to-face meet ups with friends
- Only check social media from a computer
- Make an effort to be present in all situations and not looking down at your phone
- Limit daily screen time