Even as a mental health professional, I have fallen into the rabbit hole that is social media. Let me paint you a picture:
I get up in the morning and start my day by checking emails. Then I see those pesky little notifications (which must not be ignored) so I click the apps. But I don’t stop at reading my notifications, oh no. Before I even realize what I’m doing, I start scrolling. I read someone’s content.. and then “hey, that looks really interesting, and totally relevant, so I must keep reading”, then, “oh and here’s another interesting link”… you see where I’m going with this, right?
Next thing you know, an hour has gone by, or 2, or more, and then the guilt kicks in, because wow, what a spectacular waste of time and mental energy I’ve engaged in all morning!
Beyond the self-berating, I also very often walk away feeling moody and dysregulated, and can’t quite figure out why.
Does any of this sound familiar?
If so, read on.
The Mental Effects of Social Media: What We Don’t Always Talk About
In a world that’s more connected than ever, social media has become a daily habit for billions. It entertains, informs, and brings people together—but it also has a deeper, more complex impact on our mental well-being.
1. Constant Comparison
Scrolling through perfectly curated feeds can trigger feelings of inadequacy, envy, and low self-worth. It’s easy to forget that what we see online is often a highlight reel, not real life.
2. Dopamine Dependence
Social media platforms are designed to keep us engaged, often triggering short bursts of dopamine—our brain’s reward chemical. Over time, this can create a cycle of craving validation through likes, shares, and comments.
3. Anxiety & FOMO
Fear of missing out (FOMO) is real. Seeing others attend events, travel, or achieve goals can increase anxiety and make us question our own paths or pace in life.
4. Sleep Disruption
Late-night scrolling doesn’t just steal our time—it can disturb sleep patterns, especially when it becomes a coping mechanism for stress or boredom.
5. Decreased Attention Span
Constant exposure to rapid-fire content can make it harder to focus, be present, or enjoy slower, more meaningful moments offline.
So what can we do?
- Set boundaries: Limit screen time and schedule regular digital detoxes.
- Curate your feed: Follow accounts that inspire or uplift rather than drain you.
- Be mindful: Check in with how you feel before, during, and after using social media.
- Stay grounded: Real life happens off-screen—don’t miss it.
Social media isn’t inherently bad, but like any powerful tool, how we use it matters. Protecting your mental health starts with awareness—and small, intentional changes can make a big difference.
Think, Move, Heal 