In this advice column, our team tackles all your questions about life, family, and everything that might be weighing on your mind. This week, we explore whether social media is exacerbating your depression in 2020. Is it time to delete all your apps and disconnect completely, or can you approach it in a healthier way?
Dear Home Insemination Kit,
I’ve always enjoyed using social media as a way to connect, find entertainment, and stay informed about everything from world events to adorable pet photos. However, this year—and the last few years, if I’m being honest—social media feels increasingly bleak. The rise of political posts and memes is not the worst part; it’s seeing people I once admired, like friends and family, sharing outrageous conspiracy theories, divisive propaganda, and alarming misinformation. They become incredibly defensive when challenged. It’s disheartening to witness. Additionally, seeing others attend large gatherings while my family is committed to safety makes it even tougher. Should I just erase all my accounts and become a recluse?
There is a clear connection between social media usage and increased anxiety and depression, and 2020 has amplified these effects, particularly due to the pandemic. Research from Pennsylvania State University and Jinan University in China indicates that excessive social media use during this time can predict symptoms of depression and secondary trauma. The study revealed that between late March and early May, 46% to 51% of American adults reported using social media more than before the pandemic. This surge affected not only those with pre-existing mental health issues but also those who had never faced such challenges.
In fact, over half of the participants who had no history of trauma or depressive disorders experienced some level of depression during this period. Almost 20% reported moderate to severe depression, while slightly more than 20% experienced similar levels of secondary trauma, stemming from hearing about the distressing experiences of others.
Navigating social media can be tough, especially when beloved relatives share unfounded claims or friends flaunt maskless gatherings. It’s natural to feel the urge to delete all apps that don’t bring you joy, but that might not be feasible if social media is integral to your work or connections. If you decide to take a break from it all, that’s okay. However, if you find that approach unsustainable, consider establishing boundaries. You have control over who sees your updates and who you follow. By snoozing, unfollowing, or even blocking certain accounts, you can curate a feed that feels less overwhelming, which can help alleviate anxiety.
This year has given us plenty of reasons to feel let down by others. It’s essential to remember that you don’t have to engage with harmful rhetoric or irresponsible behavior from those around you. You get to choose what you want to see and who gets to see you.
For more insights on navigating these challenges, check out our other blog post here. If you want to learn more about pregnancy and home insemination, you can explore resources at Make a Mom or find valuable information on this WebMD page.
Search Queries:
- How does social media affect mental health?
- Tips for managing anxiety caused by social media.
- Is quitting social media good for mental health?
- Ways to set boundaries on social media.
- Effects of 2020 on mental well-being.
Summary:
Social media can significantly impact mental health, especially during challenging times like 2020. While it can serve as a means of connection, it can also foster anxiety and depression due to disheartening content and divisive rhetoric. Establishing boundaries and taking control of your social media experience can help manage these feelings and create a healthier online environment.
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