Tag: Social Media

How Does Social Media Impact Our Mental Health? by Columbus Care Center.

~ Eleanor Segall ~ 2 Comments

(image: Nathan: Unsplash)

Social media plays a highly indispensable part in our daily lives. It helps to shape the manner in which we connect, communicate, and interact with the world. Although there are innumerable benefits that social media has to offer, it has a lot of impact on mental health. Individuals often wonder about the long-term psychological effects of spending hours scrolling through every feed, posting updates, or engaging in online discussions. These are the rising concerns that prove essential for addressing mental health issues that are digitally on the uprise.

The Role of Social Media in Shaping Our Emotions

Although social media verticals offer the ability to connect to individuals globally, they impact emotions in different ways. The pressure imposed to present the polished, ideal life online eventually leads to greater anxiety, stress, and depression.

Comparison Of Culture And Self-Esteem

One of the highly notable ways in which social media influences mental health is a comparative culture. The users often scroll through the feed that they note as the highlights of the reels to the other’s lives, leading to unhealthier comparisons. The constant exposure gets filtered and curated through content, leading to feelings of low self-worth or inadequacies. Individuals get pressurised, matching their achievements, physical aesthetics, or lifestyles, raising anxiety and self-doubt.

This issue is particularly concerning for younger adults and teenagers. Adolescence is the ideal moment focused on self-discovery and the formation of identity, adding to the social media layer and intensifying such hurdles.

Cyberbullying And Online Harassment

The social networking sites that are accessed through the internet should be accessed healthily since they reveal the worst in people, and their ill behaviours affect people’s mental health. It has gotten to the level of people using computers to insult other people, to threaten or follow them maliciously. Cyberbullying makes individuals develop anxiety, depression, and even withdrawal from social relations. What online abusers forget is that the emotional side of any individual remains tender, and the words engraved on the social site will fester long after the bad comments are made.

Furthermore, one may also refrain from expressing one’s opinion on social media because of being criticised by other users. It makes people feel silenced from being able even to express themselves, and that on its own exacerbates their mental health issues.

Social Media Addiction

Aside from emotions, social media addiction is another factor to waste mental health. For many people, they are constantly using it to browse or mindlessly open to see notifications, or even feel the need to see what is going on online. This type of usage might result in anxiety and stress because a person becoming addicted to the application constantly worries that they may be logged out.

It also impacts sleep because users spend hours at night browsing through their phones, or maybe they forget the time. Lack of sufficient sleep, in turn, is a cause of poor mental health and worsening disorders such as depression and anxiety.

(image: Chris Yang: Unsplash)

The Positive Side Of Social Media For Mental Health

In like manner, there are positive aspects that can be socially beneficial when properly used social media networks to promote the health of a person’s mind. It offers an opportunity to tell a story, voice concerns, or find others among like minded people.

Support Communities And Mental Health Awareness

Mental health awareness has been taken to new heights by the use of social media. Most of the contestants narrate their ordeals, which helps eliminate the perception of socially embarrassing states such as mental illnesses. Examples include Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook, and such account types have turned into help groups, support, and recommendations to search for professional aid types.

Such support communities are most helpful for those who lack social contacts in their real life. For those struggling with disorders such as anxiety or depression or post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), social media can give people information on how to manage their disorders, where to find a supportive audience, or where to get professional medical advice.

Virtual Therapy And Mental Health Apps

A new wave of social media mental health is using social media for providing online therapy and mental health apps. But with the advancement in technology, specifically through teletherapy, it is now possible to see a therapist online. There are quite a few applications and websites providing services, from anxiety-provoking exercises to cognitive-behavioural therapy, allowing people to improve their psychological state without visiting a professional therapist in the comfort of their homes using electronics.

This virtual accessibility makes it easier for people who may not otherwise come for help due to social stigma, geographical distance, or a number of menial charges. Moreover, other social media influencers and health professionals post significant guidance and strategies for staying mentally well, as well as exercises and positive affirmations.

Striking A Healthy Balance

Although social networks are beneficial and damaging for the human psyche in one way or another, the fundamental task is to achieve the proper distribution of time in using them. The overall increased use of social media can lead to mental health problems, addiction, and the deterioration of interpersonal relationships. Still, by following certain guidelines, using social media sensibly without losing one’s self-control, eliminating negative content, and taking necessary precautions, all the harmful factors mentioned above can be minimized.

Despite social media’s many positive aspects, there are ways to reduce its harm: taking many breaks, taking care of oneself, and being aware of what one is consuming online. Practical measures such as reduced screen time and spending time with friends, family, or other loved ones can also greatly reduce anxiety and enhance mental health.

Conclusion

Undoubtedly, social media has a huge impact on mental health that reshapes the manner in which we perceive ourselves while interacting with others. Although there are different scopes to support, raise awareness, and connect while bringing different challenges like cyberbullying, addiction, and comparison cultures, a better balance remains important to maintaining mental health.

This article was written by Columbus Care Center.

Your Environment Matters: Setting the Stage for Drug Detox Success this Mental Health Awareness Week by Maya

~ Eleanor Segall ~ 1 Comment

(image: Unsplash: Ron Smith)

When you’re struggilng with substance abuse and considering detox, chances are you have a clouded view of what this looks like. Images of withdrawal symptoms, sterile hospital beds, and indifferent staff often cause people to fear going into a rehab center. But drug detox doesn’t have to be this way.

Facilities across the USA (and in the UK) like Utah drug detox centers, can provide a safe, supportive, and structured environment to help you navigate this challenging phase. These centres offer the resources and expertise necessary to manage detox. They can help set you up for long-term success.

What are the key aspects of a positive detox environment, and how do they contribute to a successful recovery journey? We’ll discuss those answers here.

Building a Foundation

Research shows that up to 90% of people who relapse after drug detox do so within the first year. Don’t let this number discourage you, though! It can feel daunting, but it also highlights the importance of setting yourself up for success from the very beginning.

Creating a positive environment during detox will improve your chances of long-term recovery. You need a calming, supportive space. Whether you choose your own home, a friend or family member’s place, or a detox program, make sure it’s comfortable and includes healthy, appealing meals that nourish your body. As you heal and cope with withdrawal symptoms, you’ll need proper nutrition.

Surround yourself with a supportive network of people as well. Those who understand your journey and believe in your recovery will be a crucial source of strength.

Address Detox Concerns

Detoxification is often seen as a difficult, uncomfortable experience, and with good reason. Many people entering detox worry about withdrawal symptoms. These effects can range from anxiety and fatigue to nausea, pain, and muscle aches.

But withdrawal symptoms aren’t the only concern. People might also worry about privacy, safety, and the cost of detox. Quality detox programs focus on patient privacy and confidentiality with trained medical professionals to provide a safe, supportive environment.

These types of detox programs can come with a hefty price tag, but many facilities have flexible payment options or work with insurance. Treatment is still within reach for those struggling financially.

Environment

Imagine stepping into a detox program, not with a sense of dread, but with a feeling of comfort. Instead of glaring lights and cold metal, you’re greeted by a warm, home-like environment. Attentive and professional staff are there to support you, easing the anxieties often associated with detox. This welcoming atmosphere can foster a crucial element of recovery: trust.

Trust in your caregivers is essential. When a detox program feels clinical and impersonal, it can create a sense of detachment. You might feel like just another patient to be processed. But a comfortable and inviting space can make a big difference.

This environment allows you to feel safe, valued, and more receptive to the personalised care and guidance offered by your treatment team. The sense of trust empowers you to fully engage in the detox and recovery process, setting you up for a stronger foundation on your journey to a healthier life.

Take the First Step

Detox is a crucial first step on the path to recovery. By prioritizing a safe, supportive, and comfortable environment, you can significantly increase your chances of long-term success.

Remember, you don’t have to face this alone. Reach out to a qualified professional or treatment center today to begin your journey to a healthier and happier life. Many resources are available to support you, and there is no shame in seeking help. Take that first step today — your future self will thank you for it.

Digital Detox: How To Get Respite From Constant Connectivity For Your Mental Health by Daisy Moss.

~ Eleanor Segall ~ 1 Comment

(image: Pexels)

Our generation loves digital media and smartphones. While it can be highly beneficial in some ways, unfortunately it does come with negative associations, known to affect our mind and bodies more than we may know. Taking more time away from our screens can help to reduce stress, improve sleep quality, improve our relationships, free up more time for friends and family, and help with our personal growth.

As we have become very reliant on our phones and social media, sometimes it’s necessary to actively seek ways to reduce our time using them to help with our overall health.

Spend An Hour A Day On A Screen-Free Hobby

The first thing you should do to help you get respite from constant connectivity and to help your mental health is to spend an hour a day on a screen-free hobby. Identify an hour a day you have free consistently and set it aside for a hobby, whether that’s an hour before you start work or after work. Some examples are throwing on your favourite loungewear and spending an hour exercising, meeting a friend for a fun activity, reading, cooking, crafting, journalling, gardening, listening to a podcast, volunteering or going to explore a new place. If you have the time, on weekends or when you’re not working, try to increase this hour to a few.

Not only does this help you reduce your screen time, but you can focus on yourself and things you enjoy. You don’t have to spend money on this (or you of course can if you want to) and can get creative, whether they’re solo activities or you’re planning activities with a partner or family.

Use An App To Limit App Usage

If you struggle to put your phone down once you’ve picked it up to check what you need to, then you can use your phone to help you limit your phone usage. Most phones have a setting where you can set a limit on your phone, either for specific apps (e.g. you spend too much time on Instagram specifically), or for your phone in general, to flag you when you need to switch it off and have used your limit. Whilst you can switch this off if you need to, it’s not 100% effective of course, but it just provides that extra indication and reminder to help you break unhealthy cycles. Give this a try, it might not be fully effective when it’s the only measure you put in place, but when you combine it with other healthy alternatives to using your phone, it should help overall!

Eat Without Your Phone

Something else that can help you break the cycle of constant connectivity with the digital world is to make sure you don’t use your phone when you’re eating. There are studies that suggest when you eat food and scroll at the same time, a double hit of dopamine is released, so you naturally become more inclined to use your phone more and eat more food. This forms an unhealthy habit for both our mind and body, so keeping them separate is important. Meal times are a great opportunity to sit at a table, listen to your favourite album or have a catch up with friends, family or your partner, rather than keeping on scrolling.

(image: Unsplash: Micheile Henderson)

Leave Your Phone Out Of Your Bedroom

Something else that can really help you to reduce your digital use is to leave your phone out of your bedroom. Get yourself an alarm clock, then you have no reason to need your phone in there. Sitting and scrolling on our phones in bed is so tempting and it’s really easy to do, however it often means we go to sleep later than we should or would want to, as well as making it more difficult to actually sleep when you do put your phone down, as the blue light can disrupt your sleeping patterns and leave you awake for longer.

So, keeping your phone out of your room, for at least an hour before bed, helps to break this cycle. Replace your habit of scrolling on your phone with something relaxing that helps you to unwind, like reading a book or magazine for an hour, having a nice bath and doing your skincare, some meditation or just listening to music. You’ll find you sleep much better, helping you to feel energised and refreshed the next day, as well as helping your mental health.

This article was written by writer Daisy Moss.

Mental Health, Low Self Esteem, Body Image and Fashion.

~ Eleanor Segall ~ 1 Comment

(image: Freestocks at unsplash)

Fashion is a powerful force. It has the ability to make people feel confident, empowered, or at its worst horrible about themselves. It can have a positive impact on mental health and self-esteem if you find something pieces that make you feel good about yourselves. On the other hand, fashion can also have a negative impact on self-esteem and mental health if you’re constantly exposed to images and messages that make you feel inferior or unhappy with who you are. Especially with the inward turn of the pandemic, its hard for people to feel happy and confident about themselves.

The Psychology of Fashion

Fashion is a multi-billion-dollar industry and a big part of many people’s daily lives. It’s a subculture that’s easy to invest in. And, like any other trend, fashion comes and goes, so you’re always in control of how much you invest in it. The psychology of fashion reveals the different aspects of how fashion impacts people’s self-esteem. From the way people perceive others based on the way they’re dressed, to how people present themselves to the world by choosing outfits, fashion has a strong psychological effect on everyone.

Body Image

Our bodies are such an important part of life, and it’s normal to have some insecurities about them. Still, as you grow older, many people struggle with body dysmorphia or an unhealthy obsession with one’s appearance. Constant exposure to images of other people’s bodies that are unrealistic and unattainable can be harmful to your self-esteem, especially in young people who are still forming their self-image. This can lead to eating disorders, body dysmorphia, low self esteem and depression and anxiety. Looking at images of gorgeous models wearing clothes you can’t afford or fit in can makes you feel left out or confused. It’s fun to keep up with trends, but try to avoid getting stuck in a rut of hype culture.

(image: Hannah Morgan at Unsplash)

So what should I do?

You can’t ignore fashion and societal trends- but it’s important to not let fashion (or what is popular to wear) become something that defines who you are. It’s a fun accessory, something you should do for enjoyment, creativity, and confidence. For people who have found themselves struggling with their mental health due to the psychological effects on body image, it’s important to seek help. Talk to your friends and family members, or seek professional help if you need it. There are many ways to find happiness in style- whether you’re into vintage clothing, a specific designer, or a particular style like athleisure. You can read blogs with good recommendations, and wear things that you love, like that pair of perfect trainers or Men’s Off-White Hoodies. There’s something for everyone, and it’s important to have fun with it!

Fashion and societal expectations of how one should look can have a big impact on mental health, so it’s important to be mindful of it. It is also hard to be bombarded with negative messages on body image via social media. The body positive movement has sprung up because of this narrative- showing curvier models and embracing your flaws as beautiful.

There are also many ways to wear your favourite clothes in a way that makes you feel good about yourself, without negatively impacting your mental health. Focus on what makes you feel like the best version of yourself!

This article was written by a freelance writer and contains do follow links.

On Selfie Day: Is social media bad for our health? Guest post by AXA PPP Healthcare

~ Eleanor Segall ~ 4 Comments

socialmedia1
(image: https://www.designweek.co.uk)

Today’s world is dominated by social media and it seems to be playing an ever increasing role in our lives.

Dr Mark Winwood, Director of Psychological Services at AXA PPP healthcare acknowledges that social media can give young adults a certain perception of life, that isn’t always reality.

 “Social media is a window where people choose what they want to present to the world – whether this real or altered – and in many ways it can be a ‘false reality’.

 It’s natural for an onlooker to make assumptions about others based on what they see online, but often those who are vulnerable cannot make this distinction, which can have a negative affect both on their mental health and their body image.” comments Dr Winwood.

“For some, being online is their main source of social interaction and, over time, this can turn out to be an isolating and lonely experience. And, whilst the ‘rewards’ of communicating online are instantaneous, this isn’t necessarily a good thing” he says.

Social media website Instagram has been rated as having the worst effects on teenagers’ sleep, body image and fear of missing out.

 Ultimately with four of the five most popular forms of social media found to be harming young people’s mental health, it is important for young adults to realise that there is a world outside of the screen.

In 2016, seven young people who switched off from social media told the Guardian about the positive results they experienced. One said “I can live my life instead of trying to shape it into one that looks good online. I also have a lot more time now, and it’s easy enough to keep in touch with my friends in other ways.”

If you decide to have a social media holiday, here are Dr Winwood’s observations:

 Suspend your accounts – suspending them for a week means you can take a break without the temptation to check for any new notifications.

Make an effort to meet up with friends face to face – you may find that cutting down on your social media time leaves a temporary void, so arrange to see friends and family personally and you’ll feel in touch when you’re off-line.

Enjoy the gift of renewed focus – think of all the occasions when your attention was split between checking social media and having a conversation or watching TV or walking along and just tune in to the moment of what you’re doing without the distraction.

Get an alarm clock – using your phone as an alarm can make it tempting to automatically check the online scene the minute you’re getting up. Having a separate alarm clock removes that temptation from arm’s reach.

If you find you crave social media try checking out apps designed to block certain sites at certain times of the day. This approach helps avoid that mindless checking and re-checking we all fall victim too.

This guest post was written by AXA PPP Healthcare.  If you think you might be addicted to social media, find more tips and advice at AXA PPP healthcare’s Mental Health Centre or speak to one of its help at hand nurses online.