Does Social Media Cause Depression?
August 01, 2019 | Abigail Mckay

Does Social Media Cause Depression?

 

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Social media has been repeatedly linked to depression and anxiety, especially in teenagers and young adults.  However, what seems to be disputed is not that social media itself causes depression and anxiety, but rather the negative behavior that is frequently exhibited on social media.  For example, bullying continues to be an issue spanning all generations, but it primarily affects the teenage population. Online platforms allow bullying 24 hours, seven days a week, even when children are not at school.  This constant bombardment of negative pressure and commentary can, in turn, lead to poor mental health.  

Poor mental health is often due to bullying, peer pressure, envy, and the “keeping up with the Joneses” mentality.  All of these negative behaviors can be found on social media.  So, yes, you could make a strong case that excessive amount of time spent on social media could, in fact, cause depression and anxiety.  Limiting social media helps combat the negative notions found on social media, and it also creates a healthy, present atmosphere, free from constant influences.  It allows personal growth without others’ opinions, which can lead to a positive state of mind. Modern-day, online platforms are great tools when used in moderation, but should never substitute for personal experience gathered from everyday life.

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Abigail Mckay

Abigail has been a nurse for five years, and throughout her time as a nurse, she has worked in multiple medical-surgical units as well as spent time in the infusion therapy clinic and endoscopy lab. She is passionate about preventative medicine through patient education regarding nutrition and exercise. Due to her passion, Abigail has gone on to earn two certifications including a certification in medical-surgical nursing (CMSRN) and a certification in holistic nursing (HNB-BC), in hopes of being able to better serve her patients. Abigail earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Liberty University in Lynchburg, VA and now bettering patient education in the healthcare system through partnering with American TelePhysicians.