Social media can have both positive and negative effects on our mental health. So if you feel like you may need to take a ‘mental health’ break, then here are some helpful strategies to follow.
By Mama Disrupt®
Social media is a massive part of our lives [hello late night scrolling to stay awake during cluster feeding] and that can have both positive and negative effects on our mental health.
It is a great way to stay connected with friends and family, find support communities, and access information and resources. It is also really beneficial for mums who feel isolated when they’re at home with a baby – helping them feel like they’re not alone.
It’s ok to prioritise your mental health over social media. Do what feels best for you and don’t be afraid to seek help if you need it.
But on the other hand, there are also potential negative effects of social media use on mental health such as:
Comparison and self-esteem issues: Seeing the carefully curated and often idealised lives of others can lead to feelings of inadequacy and lower self-esteem.
Trolling: Social media platforms can be breeding grounds for trolling and cyberbullying, which can be extremely harmful.
Addiction and distraction: It can be addictive and can also distract you from more meaningful activities, such as spending time with loved ones or pursuing hobbies.
Disrupted sleep patterns: Using social media [and being on your phone] before bed can disrupt sleep patterns.
If you find yourself saying, “I think being on social media is bad for my mental health,” there are a few things you can do:
1. Take a break
Consider taking a break for a few days, a week, or even longer. This can give you some space to reflect on how social media is impacting you and help you identify any patterns or triggers.
2. Limit your use
If taking a break isn’t an option, consider limiting your use. Set boundaries for when and how long you’ll use it each day and stick to them.
3. Curate your feed
Be mindful of the content you’re consuming on social media. Unfollow or mute accounts that make you feel bad about yourself or trigger negative emotions.
4. Seek support
If you’re struggling with your mental health, consider seeking support from a professional. They can help you develop strategies to manage your social media use and improve your overall wellbeing.
