The influence of social networks on mental health

The influence of social networks on mental health

I. Cognitive aspects and social comparison

A. Cognitive distortion mechanisms on social networks:

1. Exposure effect (Mere-Exposure Effect): The repeated impact of certain images, opinions and content on social networks, even if they did not initially attract attention, can lead to an increase in their attractiveness and acceptance. This effect can enhance the perception of unrealistic standards of beauty, lifestyle and success presented on the network. Social networks, optimized to keep attention, often pushes users to re -interaction with content, which corresponds to their existing prejudices or ideas, strengthening them and complicating critical thinking.

2. Anchoring bias: The first information received about any event or person on social networks may become an “anchor” that affects the subsequent assessment. For example, a negative commentary on someone else’s appearance can significantly affect the perception of this person, even if more positive information is subsequently obtained. Social networks, in which the information spreads quickly and superficially, creates a favorable environment for anchorization, since users often form their opinion on the basis of the first impressions, not having time or motivation for a deeper analysis.

3. Confirmation of confirmation bias: Users tend to search and interpret information on social networks so that it confirms their existing beliefs. Social networks algorithms enhance this bias, offering content that corresponds to the preferences of the user, creating “echo cameras”, in which alternative points of view are rare. This can lead to polarization of opinions, strengthening prejudice and difficulty in constructive dialogue.

4. Availability HEURISTIC: Users overestimate the likelihood of events or the importance of information that is easily available in their memory. Social networks, with their stream of updates and notifications, make certain topics and events extremely accessible, which can lead to a distorted perception of reality. For example, constant coverage of tragic events on social networks can create a feeling that the world is much more dangerous than it really is.

5. The bias of optimism (optim bias): Users tend to overestimate the likelihood of positive events and underestimate the likelihood of negative events in their own life. In social networks, where people often share only their best moments, the bias of optimism can intensify, creating unrealistic expectations and leading to disappointment and envy.

B. Social comparison and its consequences:

1. Rising social comparison: A comparison of themselves with those who seem more successful, attractive or happy can lead to a sense of inferiority, envy, depression and a decrease in self -esteem. Platforms, such as Instagram and Facebook, often demonstrate idealized versions of life, which enhances the rising social comparison and its negative consequences. Filte photographs, edited videos and carefully thought out posts create the illusion of perfection, which can be difficult to achieve and, therefore, lead to a sense of dissatisfaction.

2. Downward social comparison: A comparison of themselves with those who seem less successful or happy can temporarily increase self -esteem and a sense of gratitude. However, an excessive descending social comparison may be a sign of avoiding behavior and may prevent the user from striving for self -improvement. In addition, it can lead to a condescending attitude to others and strengthen existing prejudices.

3. The consequences of constant social comparison: Constant social comparison, regardless of direction, can lead to chronic stress, anxiety and depression. It distracts from his own goals and achievements, forcing the user to focus on comparison with others, and not on his own progress. This can lead to a feeling of loss of control over your own life and a decrease in motivation.

4. The role of algorithms in strengthening social comparison: Social networks algorithms often show users content, which, in their opinion, will be the most attractive, which often includes content from people who seem more successful or attractive. This can lead to the fact that users will be constantly exposed to content that enhances social comparison and its negative consequences.

C. The impact on self -esteem and identity:

1. Validation through “likes” and comments: Dependence on social networks to obtain validation and confirm their value can lead to unstable self -esteem, which depends on the opinions of others. The number of “likes” and the comments received during the post can become the measure of success and attractiveness, which leads to anxiety and disappointment, when the number of these interactions does not correspond to expectations.

2. Blurring the boundaries between real and online identity: Users often create idealized versions of themselves on social networks, which may differ from their real personality. This can lead to a sense of alienation and dissociation, when the user feels that he cannot be himself in real life. The constant need to maintain a certain image on social networks can be exhausting and lead to exhaustion.

3. Influence on the formation of identity in adolescents: Teenagers who actively use social networks are especially vulnerable to the negative impact of social comparison and dependence on validation. During the formation of identity, they may experience pressure in order to meet certain standards of beauty and behavior presented on social networks. This can lead to problems with self -esteem, self -doubt and an increased tendency to anxiety and depression.

II. Emotional and psychological consequences

A. Depression and anxiety:

1. Correlation between the use of social networks and symptoms of depression: Numerous studies show the relationship between the excessive use of social networks and the increased risk of developing symptoms of depression, especially in adolescents and young adults. The causal relationship is complex, but factors, such as social comparison, cyberbulling, Fomo (Fear of Missing Out) and sleep disturbance, can play an important role.

2. Social networks as a risk factor for anxious disorders: Excessive use of social networks can aggravate anxiety disorders, such as social anxiety and generalized alarming disorder. The constant need to maintain a certain image on social networks, the fear of being rejected and fear of missing something important can lead to an increased level of anxiety.

3. FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) as an alarm generator: Fear of skipping important events or opportunities demonstrated on social networks can lead to chronic stress, anxiety and a sense of dissatisfaction. Users can experience a constant need to check their accounts to make sure that they do not miss anything important, which distracts them from real life and enhances the alarm.

4. The role of cyberbulling and online character: Cyberbulling and online charter can have destructive consequences for mental health, lead to depression, anxiety, a sense of helplessness and even suicidal thoughts. Anonymity and a wide audience of social networks make them a favorable environment for aggressive behavior, and the victims of cyberbulling often feel insulated and incapable of defending themselves.

B. Problems with sleep and circadian rhythms:

1. Blue light and suppression of melatonin: The radiation of blue light from the screens of smartphones and computers can suppress the production of melatonin, hormone that regulates sleep. This can lead to problems with falling asleep, impaired sleep quality, and circus rhythms displacement. The use of social networks before bedtime can especially negatively affect sleep.

2. Psychological stimulation and difficulties with relaxation: Social networks stimulate the brain and cause emotional reactions, which can complicate relaxation and falling asleep. A constant flow of information, notifications and interactions supports the brain in a state of excitation, which prevents the normal transition to sleep.

3. The consequences of sleep disturbance for mental health: Sleeping can aggravate depression, anxiety and other problems with mental health. The lack of sleep affects cognitive functions, mood and ability to cope with stress, which makes users more vulnerable to the negative impact of social networks.

C. Dependence on social networks:

1. Criteria for diagnosing dependence on social networks: Dependence on social networks is characterized by compulsive use, loss of control, negative consequences for real life and the occurrence of symptoms of cancellation when trying to reduce use. Diagnosis criteria may include neglect of other responsibilities, constant thinking about social networks, the use of social networks to avoid negative emotions and the inability to control the time spent on the network.

2. Neurobiological mechanisms of dependence: The use of social networks activates the remuneration system in the brain, releasing dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and motivation. Repeated interaction with social networks can lead to the formation of dependence similar to other types of dependence, such as dependence on gambling or drugs.

3. The consequences of dependence on social networks for mental health: Dependence on social networks can lead to serious problems with mental health, such as depression, anxiety, social isolation, a decrease in self -esteem and problems with interpersonal relationships. Users suffering from addiction may experience difficulties with concentration, decision -making and impulse control.

D. Influence on interpersonal relationships:

1. Replacing real communication with virtual: Excessive use of social networks can lead to a replacement of real communication with virtual, which can negatively affect the development of social skills and the ability to establish and maintain healthy interpersonal relationships. Virtual communication can be more superficial and less emotionally saturated than real communication, which can lead to a sense of loneliness and isolation.

2. Strengthening conflicts and misunderstandings: Social networks can strengthen conflicts and misunderstandings in interpersonal relationships due to the lack of non-verbal signals, the possibility of improper interpretation of messages and the public nature of interactions. Messages written in a state of emotional excitement can be perceived negatively and lead to the escalation of the conflict.

3. Jealousy and distrust in relationships: Social networks can contribute to the development of jealousy and distrust in relations, especially because of the accessibility of information about the partner, the possibility of flirting with other people and the risk of cyber change. Constant monitoring of a partner’s activity in social networks can lead to anxiety, suspicion and conflicts.

III. Positive aspects and possibilities of using

A. Social support and communication:

1. The opportunity to keep in touch with friends and family: Social networks provide a convenient opportunity to keep in touch with friends and family, especially for people living far from each other. They allow you to share news, photos and videos, stay aware of the life of loved ones and feel part of the community.

2. Creation and maintenance of social groups and communities: Social networks allow you to create and support social groups and communities that unite people with common interests, hobbies or problems. These groups can provide support, information and the ability to communicate with people who understand you.

3. Online support for people with disabilities or chronic diseases: Social networks provide the opportunity for people with disabilities or chronic diseases to find online support, communicate with other people experiencing such problems, and receive information about treatment and rehabilitation. They can feel less isolated and receive emotional support from people who understand them.

B. Access to information and education:

1. Quick access to news and information: Social networks provide quick access to news and information from around the world. However, it is important to critically evaluate the information and verify its reliability, since many fake news and misinformation are spreading on social networks.

2. Opportunities for training and development of skills: Social networks provide opportunities for training and development of skills, such as online courses, webinars and training groups. They allow users to gain access to the knowledge and experience of experts and exchange information with other students.

3. Expansion of the horizons and acquaintance with different cultures: Social networks allow you to expand the horizons and get acquainted with different cultures, communicate with people from different countries and learn about their traditions and customs. This can contribute to the development of tolerance and respect for other cultures.

C. Tools for activism and social influence:

1. Organization of social movements and campaigns: Social networks have become an important tool for organizing social movements and campaigns, allowing people to unite and express their opinion on important issues. They allow you to quickly disseminate information, mobilize people and put pressure on the government and company.

2. Distribution of information about social problems and fundraising: Social networks allow you to disseminate information about social problems and collect funds for charitable organizations. They allow users to learn about problems that they might not know about, and provide assistance to those in need.

3. Support for small business and entrepreneurship: Social networks provide small enterprises and entrepreneurs with the opportunity to promote their products and services, find new customers and interact with existing ones. They allow you to create a brand, establish a trusting relationship with customers and receive feedback.

D. Using social networks for mental health:

1. Online platforms for psychological assistance: There are online platforms that provide the opportunity to receive psychological assistance, such as online therapy and consultations. They allow users to access qualified specialists without leaving their home, and receive anonymous support.

2. Applications for tracking the mood and managing stress: There are applications for tracking the mood and managing stress that help users realize their emotional states and develop strategies for overcoming stress. They allow you to monitor their mood, identify stress triggers and receive recommendations for improving mental health.

3. Online support communities for people with mental disorders: There are online support communities for people with mental disorders, where they can communicate with other people experiencing such problems, share their experience and receive emotional support. They allow users to feel less isolated and receive hope for recovery.

IV. Factors affecting the effects

A. Age and stage of development:

1. The vulnerability of adolescents and young adults: Adolescents and young adults are especially vulnerable to the negative influence of social networks due to the incomplete development of the brain, the search for identity and an increased tendency to social comparison. They can experience pressure to meet certain standards of beauty and behavior presented on social networks, which can lead to problems with self -esteem and depression.

2. Influence on children and younger adolescents: The use of social networks by children and younger adolescents should be limited and controlled by parents in order to prevent a negative impact on their development and mental health. Children can be more vulnerable to cyberbilling, misinformation and content that does not correspond to their age.

3. Features of influence on the adult population: Adults can be more resistant to the negative impact of social networks, but they can also experience problems, such as addiction, social comparison and FOMO. It is important to realize your habits for using social networks and take measures to protect your mental health.

B. Personal features:

1. The role of self -esteem and self -confidence: People with low self -esteem and insufficient self -confidence are more vulnerable to the negative impact of social comparison and dependence on validation on social networks. It is important to develop healthy self -esteem and self -confidence in order not to depend on the opinions of others.

2. The influence of extraversion and introversion: Extroverts can use social networks to expand their circle of communication and maintain social ties, while introverts can prefer to use them to communicate with close friends and family. It is important to use social networks in such a way that they meet your needs and do not lead to social isolation.

3. A tendency to anxiety and depression: People prone to anxiety and depression are more vulnerable to the negative impact of social networks and may experience a deterioration in symptoms with excessive use. It is important to realize your vulnerability and take measures to protect your mental health, such as restricting the use of social networks and seeking professional help.

C. Socio-economic status:

1. Technology accessibility and digital inequality: The unequal access to technology and the Internet can create digital inequality that can aggravate social inequality. People with limited access to technology can be excluded from the online communities and capabilities, which can lead to social isolation and a sense of inferiority.

2. The influence of economic stress on the use of social networks: Economic stress can lead to an increase in the use of social networks as a way to distract from problems and search for support. However, excessive use of social networks can aggravate stress and lead to other mental health problems.

3. The connection between socio-economic status and cyberbulling: Studies show the connection between socio-economic status and cyberbilling, while children from dysfunctional families can be more vulnerable to cyberbulling and its negative consequences.

V. Strategies for reducing negative impact and promoting healthy use

A. Restriction of time spent on social networks:

1. Installing temporary limits and using tracking applications: Install temporary limits on the use of social networks and use tracking applications to control your time spent on the network. Awareness of your time spent on social networks can help you reduce it and free time for other classes.

2. Establishing periods of “digital detox”: Install the periods of “digital detox” when you completely abandon the use of social networks for a certain time to relax from the constant flow of information and interaction. This can help you reboot, improve your mood and establish relationships with loved ones.

3. Creating zones without gadgets in the house: Create zones without gadgets in the house, such as a bedroom or a dining table, to take a break from the screens and focus on real life. This can help you improve the quality of sleep, establish communication with loved ones and enjoy the moment.

B. Conscious use of social networks:

1. Critical content assessment and avoiding social comparison: Critically evaluate the content that you see on social networks, and avoid social comparison. Remember that people often demonstrate idealized versions of their lives on social networks, and comparing themselves with them is unrealistic and not useful.

2. The choice of content that contributes to a positive mood and self -development: Choose content that contributes to a positive mood and self -development, such as motivational quotes, inspiring stories and educational materials. Surround yourself with positive content that supports your goals and values.

3. Using social networks to communicate with friends and family, and not to search for validation: Use social networks to communicate with friends and family, and not to search for validation. Focus on building a real relationship and get support from people who value you for who you are.

C. Development of healthy strategies for overcoming stress:

1. Physical activity and healthy nutrition: Physical activity and healthy nutrition can help you cope with stress and improve your mental health. Regular exercises and a balanced diet can improve your mood, increase energy level and reduce anxiety.

2. Practices of awareness and meditation: Practices of awareness and meditation can help you reduce stress, improve the concentration of attention and develop emotional stability. The regular practice of meditation can help you calm your mind and learn to accept your thoughts and feelings without condemnation.

3. The development of a hobby and interests that are not related to social networks: Develop hobbies and interests that are not related to social networks in order to distract from the screens and find other ways to enjoy and satisfaction. Find classes that you like and devote time to them regularly.

D. Search for professional assistance if necessary:

1. Appeal to a psychologist or psychotherapist: If you experience mental health problems associated with the use of social networks, contact a psychologist or psychotherapist for professional help. The therapist can help you understand your feelings, develop healthy strategies for overcoming stress and change your habits of using social networks.

2. Search for support in online communities for people with mental disorders: Look for support in online communities for people with mental disorders, where you can communicate with other people experiencing such problems, share your experience and receive emotional support. These communities can provide you with a sense of belonging and hope for recovery.

VI. Future research areas

A. The long -term influence of social networks on mental health:

1. Studying the influence of social networks on brain development and cognitive functions: Long -term studies are needed to study the influence of social networks on brain development and cognitive functions, especially in children and adolescents. It is important to understand how social networks affect attention, memory, decision -making and social skills.

2. A study of the connection between the use of social networks and the risk of developing mental disorders in the long term: Studies are necessary to study the connection between the use of social networks and the risk of developing mental disorders in the long term. It is important to understand how social networks affect the likelihood of developing depression, anxiety, eating disorders and other mental disorders.

B. Development of effective prevention and treatment strategies:

1. Development of programs for the conscious use of social networks for children and adolescents: It is necessary to develop programs on the conscious use of social networks for children and adolescents in order to teach them to critically evaluate content, avoid social comparison and protect their mental health. These programs should include information about the risks and advantages of using social networks, as well as strategies for overcoming negative impact.

2. Development of therapeutic interventions for the treatment of dependence on social networks and other problems associated with their use: It is necessary to develop therapeutic interventions to treat dependence on social networks and other problems associated with their use, such as depression, anxiety and social isolation. These interventions should be based on scientific evidence and take into account the individual needs of each patient.

C. Studying the influence of new technologies and platforms:

1. Study of the influence of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) on mental health: It is necessary to study the influence of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) on mental health, as these technologies become more and more popular. It is important to understand how they affect the perception of reality, social interactions and emotional state.

2. Study of the influence of artificial intelligence (AI) and algorithms of social networks on mental health: It is necessary to study the influence of artificial intelligence (AI) and algorithms of social networks on mental health, as they play an increasingly important role in the formation of content and user experience. It is important to understand how they affect the social comparison, the bias of confirmation and dependence.

VII. Ethical aspects and regulation

A. Responsibility of social networks for content and algorithms:

1. Algorithm transparency and preventing the spread of misinformation: Social networks should be more transparent in relation to their algorithms and take measures to prevent the spread of misinformation and hateful statements. It is necessary to develop mechanisms for controlling content and holding accountable for the spread of illegal or malicious content.

2. Protecting user confidentiality and preventing data collection without consent: Social networks should protect user confidentiality and prevent data collection without their consent. It is necessary to develop rules and policies that limit the collection and use of personal data of users and provide them with control over their information.

B. The role of the state and society in the regulation of social networks:

1. Development of laws and regulatory acts governing the activities of social networks: The state must develop laws and regulations governing the activities of social networks and ensure the protection of user rights. It is necessary to establish rules that limit the collection and use of personal data that prevents the distribution of misinformation and provide responsibility for cyberbulling and other types of online power.

2. Enlightenment of the population about risks and advantages of using social networks: It is necessary to educate the population about the risks and advantages of using social networks so that people can make conscious decisions about their use and protect their mental health. It is necessary to conduct educational campaigns aimed at increasing digital literacy and awareness of the use of social networks.

C. Ethical principles of development and use of social networks:

1. Development of social networks focused on the well -being of users: Social networks should be developed taking into account the well -being of users and take into account their mental health. It is necessary to create platforms that contribute to communication, support and self -development, and do not enhance social comparison, dependence and other negative consequences.

2. Taking measures to prevent cyberbulling and online characteristics: Social networks should take measures to prevent cyberbulling and online characteristics and ensure user safety. It is necessary to develop mechanisms for moderation of content, blocking aggressors and providing support to cyberbulling victims.

VIII. Conclusion

IX. Recommendations.