When it comes to teens and social media, the discussion is often centered around too much screen time, online bullying, and other potential dangers that lurk in digital environments. But there is another issue that can arise from extended exposure to screens: anxiety.
Social media anxiety affects an alarming number of teens. It’s common for them to worry about how many likes or followers they have, feel pressure to present themselves in a certain way online, and become overwhelmed by the amount of content there is to consume. This anxiety can eventually lead to feelings of depression, isolation, and even substance abuse.
Imagine Nampa provides adolescent anxiety treatment for ages 12-17 in Nampa, Idaho. Call 888.503.4604 or connect with us online for more information about this program and its benefits.
What Is Social Media?
Social media is a platform that enables users to create and share content online with other users. It connects people from all over the world, allowing them to communicate, interact and share ideas. Popular social media platforms such as Facebook, Snapchat, Instagram, and Twitter have millions of active users worldwide who use these websites daily.
Social media can be used for various purposes, such as sharing photos, videos, and news stories. It is also a great way to stay connected with friends and family who live in different parts of the world. Social media has become an integral part of life for people of all ages but can have an especially strong hold on teens and young adults who risk becoming addicted to their social media and technology. Social media addiction can lead to many significant issues in teens, perhaps most prominently anxiety.
How Does Social Media Affect Teens?
Social media has become a pervasive part of teenage life, with nearly every teen having at least one social media account. Although this can be a beneficial way for teens to stay connected to the people in their lives, there are also some potential negative effects that can come from too much use.
Teens who spend an excessive amount of time on social media may be at risk for:
- Negative mental health consequences, such as anxiety or depression
- Low self-esteem and body image issues as a result of constantly comparing themselves to others
- Poor or decreased academic performance
- Decreased motivation
- Exposure to cyber-bullying or predators
Parents can help mitigate the potential negative effects of social media by limiting their teen’s use and having an open discussion about responsible online behavior. Teens should also be encouraged to stay active, pursue hobbies, and spend time with people outside of the digital world.
If you feel your teen’s social media consumption is negatively impacting their life or causing severe anxiety, it may be time to seek professional help.
The Link Between Anxiety and Social Media and the Importance of Getting Help
The consequences of social media on mental health, particularly in adolescents, is an important issue to consider. Anxiety and depression are becoming increasingly common issues among teens who use digital devices. Studies have shown that increased social media usage is linked to higher rates of anxiety and depression in this age group.
Likewise, the pressure to portray their lives as perfect can lead to self-comparison and feelings of inadequacy. Often, teens don’t have the proper coping mechanisms to deal with these issues and need help finding healthier ways to manage their feelings.
In addition, the anxiety caused by overconsumption of social media can have devastating impacts on a young person’s life. The good news is that adolescent anxiety can be successfully treated with a variety of resources, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), medication, relaxation techniques, support groups, and lifestyle changes. CBT, in particular, has been proven to help teens cope with their symptoms by teaching them how to identify and manage unhealthy thought patterns. Medication, such as antidepressants and anti-anxiety drugs, can also help treat more severe cases of anxiety. With the right treatment and support, teens can overcome their anxiety and learn to consume social media in a healthier manner.
Imagine Nampa Proudly Offers Adolescent Anxiety Treatment in Nampa, Idaho
By seeking the proper treatment, teens can learn to manage their anxiety, use social media more healthily, and lead fulfilling lives. Contact Imagine Nampa today at 888.503.4604 or online to learn more about our adolescent anxiety treatment program and how it can help.