Social networks can be an emotional labyrinth: the animosity, the unattainable depictions of seemingly flawless lives, and the apocalyptic narratives. Certain areas of the online world appear crafted to make individuals feel worse about themselves and the environment around them.
However, there’s an alternative aspect to social media: adorable puppies, delicious recipes, “Severance” summaries, and significant relationships.
When utilized thoughtfully and cautiously, social media can likely enhance mood and emotional health, stated PhD candidate Alison Tuck, who also serves as a student therapist with the WashU Psychosocial Service Center. Tuck is pursuing her studies in the Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences within Arts & Sciences, which U.S. News & World Report has recently ranked among the top 10 psychology graduate programs in the nation.
Tuck collaborated on a research project with Renee Thompson, an associate professor, which revealed that younger and middle-aged individuals frequently turn to social media in times of sadness, anxiety, or frustration. “It’s not merely a coincidence,” Tuck remarked. “Adults may be purposefully seeking social media out, believing it will improve their mood. In fact, individuals were more inclined to report that they intentionally engaged with social media to influence their feelings during periods when they were feeling down.”
But what’s the key to enjoyable scrolling? Tuck provided advice for anyone looking to maximize the positives — and minimize the negatives — of social media.
Why investigate adult social media usage?
Much of the recent research concerning social media’s effects has concentrated on children and teenagers, and rightly so. This age group can be particularly susceptible to the harmful aspects of the online world. Nonetheless, numerous adults engage with social media as well, prompting us to explore their experiences.
We enlisted 179 adults aged 19 to 63, periodically checking in with them throughout the day for a few weeks. During these check-ins, participants would share their mood and their recent social media activity. Our findings indicate that younger and middle-aged adults were notably inclined to turn to social media when they weren’t feeling emotionally well. For psychologists and therapists, this presents an opportunity. If we can discern healthier methods for scrolling, we could significantly aid individuals in their pursuit of feeling better.
Which types of social media can enhance someone’s mood?
We are currently developing another research project that seeks to address this specific question. The findings have yet to be published, but we already have some intriguing insights. We discovered that individuals experience a mood lift by sharing posts or images related to something positive—be it an achievement or simply a photo of their pet. The entire process of creating the post, receiving likes and comments, and interacting with those responses can be beneficial for one’s mood.
Social media can also be enjoyable and constructive if you are actively searching for and engaging with content that brings you joy. There’s nothing wrong with watching a humorous clip, enjoying a beloved song, or following a baking tutorial.
What are some unhealthy ways to utilize social media?
In our studies, we’ve discovered that particular scrolling habits consistently lead to feelings of dissatisfaction. One behavior to steer clear of is using Instagram, Facebook, or any similar platform to compare your life against others, especially if you perceive those individuals as superior in some aspect. Even if you understand that others may share highly filtered versions of their existence, it’s easy to feel inadequate by comparison.
Engaging in so-called ‘doomscrolling’ — deliberately seeking or sharing content that evokes distress — is another reliable method to amplify feelings of sadness or anxiety. It’s acceptable to express frustrations about politics or other subjects from time to time, but one should avoid dwelling in negativity.
What is your primary piece of advice for individuals concerned about social media’s effects on their lives?
As a student therapist, I frequently encounter concerns and inquiries related to social media from my clients. It plays a significant role in the lives of many. I advise clients to refrain from the scrolling habits that leave them feeling worse and to seek out the posts that uplift them.
However, it’s also essential to consider the broader implications: How does social media align with their overarching life objectives? If scrolling hinders their ability to achieve what they desire—perhaps spending quality time with friends, securing enough physical activity and rest, or attaining good academic results—they should earnestly consider reducing their usage.
Yet, if Instagram, TikTok, or other platforms serve as a delightful escape or assist them in staying connected and informed without obstructing other aspects of their lives, I believe it’s perfectly fine to continue scrolling.
The article Can social media be beneficial for mental health? first appeared on The Source.