We’ve all known this for a while, but Facebook has finally acknowledged that its site can have a negative impact on people’s mental health. Studies have shown that heavy “passive” Facebook use is linked to depression and overall poor mental health. But don’t feel like you have to give up your favorite social media app just yet. While passive usage is an issue, Facebook has also outlined some habits that won’t be harmful to your mental health. Here are some ways to navigate Facebook and other social media platforms that will actually help your mental health
Facebook has been clear that passive usage of social media is often the cause for blame. What this means is that logging in and simply “reading” what’s on there can negatively affect your mental health. However, engaging with posts and friends by sending messages and commenting can actually boost psychological well-being. It’s also not enough to send out one-sided status updates. One-on-one engagement with another person on the network is what’s beneficial. So stop scrolling and start commenting!
Try giving up Facebook for a brief period of time, like a week. This has been proven to give people a psychological boost, just by checking out for a short while. Whenever Facebook starts to feel overwhelming, just like you would in any other situation, take a moment and step back.
I think most people already know this, but stalking your ex-boyfriend of ex-girlfriend on Facebook doesn’t do you any good. Studies have found that people who “stalk” friends and ex-partners are the most at risk for depression. If someone is no longer in your life it’s that way for a reason. Keep the past in the past and stop stalking!
Want a way to help your mental health? Try posting something positive! Data shows that happiness and positivity spread quickly on social media platforms like Facebook. It also gets more engagements from family and friends, the people that are actually important in your life. So stop posting about all the negative parts of life and start sharing some of the happy moments.
Many people turn to Facebook to announce their achievements to the world. But this habit can have detrimental effects. It can actually harm real-life relationships, as most people have strong feelings about online “humble-brags”. People want to be happy for you, but there’s a difference between being excited and being boastful.
Psychiatrists have long been concerned about the effects social media has on mental health. Now that research and Facebook has confirmed these suspicions, it’s about educating people how to use these sites in the healthiest way possible. Keep things positive, humble, and don’t be afraid to take a break whenever you need it. If you want to learn more healthy mental health tips or want to set up an appointment with one of our psychiatrists feel free to contact us today.
