Social Media Addiction

How social media affects the brain

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Source: Jeremy

Social Media

By: Ariana Zepeda Del Cid, Journalist

Over the years, social media has grown into our lives. We use it to connect with others and share feelings, experiences, thoughts, and more. However, many people are starting to get addicted to it. Many people who become addicted end up losing relationships, neglecting how they feel, and losing touch with reality.

One major problem we’re looking at is that people don’t notice when they have become addicted. They feel the need to check social media constantly, instead of focusing on other things like work, school, or any other chores. This addiction can lead to stress, anxiety, and derealization.  Another concern with social media addiction is that once you’re in the cycle, it’s hard to end it. Those who are aware they have an addiction still find it hard to stop checking accounts and posts even when it’s not healthy. Of course, they attempt to disconnect themselves from it, but most of the time, they end up in the cycle, over and over again. The feeling of not being able to stop can lead to hopelessness and demoralization.

Social media addiction doesn’t only have mental consequences, but for our physical health too. Mental health issues caused by social media addiction are depression, anxiety, etc. Physical problems it can give us are headaches, neck pain, eyestrain and more. In extreme cases, people might feel the need to find other ways to cope like substances. Overall, social media addiction is an expanding problem as of now with serious consequences. Ways to cope with it seeking professional help, breaking the cycle as soon as you realize the problem, and attending real-life events where you can connect with people.

 

Related Stories:

https://www.jeffersonhealth.org/your-health/living-well/the-addictiveness-of-social-media-how-teens-get-hooked 

https://www.addictioncenter.com/drugs/social-media-addiction/ 

https://scopeblog.stanford.edu/2021/10/29/addictive-potential-of-social-media-explained/ 

https://www.healthline.com/health/social-media-addiction 

https://www.leehealth.org/health-and-wellness/healthy-news-blog/mental-health/are-you-addicted-to-social-media 

Take Action:

7 Medically-Backed Ways To Prevent Addiction In Social Media Users