How often do you check your phone in a day? In an hour? Every time it buzzes or beeps? More often? Do you cruise Facebook looking at your friends updates and pictures? What about Twitter, Instagram or Snapchat? Depending on your age you may not use or understand all of the social media available, but for most of us we are connected 24/7 to our electronic device. Many therapists and other wellness professionals have asked what is the impact on mood, self-esteem and self-confidence?
Many studies have been done examining the impact of mood and Facebook. It is now known that anxiety increases. Sleep can become problematic as well. Individuals tend to compare themselves to others on Facebook. Others are obsessed with presenting the ideal image of themselves or how many “likes” they get on photos and posts. The term Facebook addiction which is not a recognized disorder is starting to gain ground in therapeutic circles. Check out a National Post article on the topic for references to academic studies. All of this of course does nothing to address the challenges faced by children and adolescents who experience cyber bullying via social media and texting.
So what can you do? What do you need to do? Clients have taken a 30 or even a 90 day break from Facebook. It would be an interesting experiment. What would you do with the time saved if you didn’t have to check Facebook or post the details of your life. Do you know how much time you spend on Facebook or other social media? Have you ever noticed your mood after checking Facebook? Take the challenge. Take a break from social media and your smart phone. Check once a day or not at all. Turn the phone off when you come home from work or school.
Does the thought of disconnecting cause your anxiety to go through the roof? If you or a family member need help contact Annette at 905-520-5859 or click here. Take a step towards mental wellness. Listening. Guiding. Caring.
