The Negative Impact of Social Media on Mental Health

Psychologist Galina Gubanova suggests that social media use may contribute to depression. She explains how virtual life affects mental health.

She says: "People with high self-esteem and perfectionism are at risk. Because the desire to become better is the motivator, but with perfectionism, the perception of success becomes paradoxical, all or nothing." The bar is high, and the logic is, "If I can't do it, I'm worthless." People compare themselves to the amazing successes of famous bloggers, and social networks become a measure of all achievements.

According to her, what's painful is that many people compare themselves to the "perfect" images in the virtual world. This leads to feelings of pain, envy, and bitterness, and reinforces negative thoughts. Some people's main goal is to showcase their successes in life for everyone to see. But their desire to be the "best version of themselves" can have negative consequences.

The scientist points out that for some users, online life has become more important than the real world.

She says, "The more immersed a person is in social networks, the less interested they are in what's happening around them. The priority here is responding to messages and why they didn't appear in photos." In the virtual world, a person replaces real feelings with "cheap dopamine," and the illusion of someone else's life increases our sense of isolation.

According to her, social media distracts young people from engaging in real activities, acquiring knowledge, developing talents, and feeling joy and satisfaction with their results, which boosts their self-confidence. Watching someone else's life doesn't give them the same satisfaction as learning to play a new musical instrument or performing tricks on a skateboard, for example. Watching short videos causes a short-term release of dopamine, which is addictive, but it doesn't give them satisfaction, which can lead to depression.

In addition, uncontrolled and prolonged reading of bad news causes stress and anxiety. Therefore, people with severe anxiety often fall into this cycle, creating the illusion of control over the situation, but in reality, it increases anxiety.

The scientist recommends reducing the time spent on social media. Of course, this may be difficult at first, but over time it becomes habitual, and even putting your phone aside.

Source: Newspaper Izvestia - Published on 5-4-2025 - https://ar.rt.com/zllx