SOCIAL MEDIA - Good or Bad for Mental Health?
While social media keeps us connected, it can also fuel anxiety. Constant exposure to trends, from beauty filters to productivity hacks, often sets unrealistic standards, leaving many people feeling inadequate or overwhelmed. It raises an important question: are these trends improving our wellbeing, or encouraging unhealthy comparison and performance?
Social media is filled with trends and fads that claim to improve mental health. They are often presented as quick fixes that suggest following them will help overcome personal challenges. However, this is not always the case. While some content can be beneficial, it is often diluted by mental health misinformation and algorithms that repeatedly reinforce it. This leads us to question whether health content on social media is genuinely helpful or simply misleading.
According to a BMC study, content creators who share their mental health journeys can influence viewers to self-diagnose if they experience similar symptoms. The same study found that seeking non-professional advice on social media instead of consulting an accredited practitioner can result in worsened mental health outcomes.
Not all content is harmful. Relating to others’ experiences can reduce feelings of isolation and create a sense of belonging. However, the challenge lies in distinguishing between accurate information and misinformation. This becomes increasingly difficult when we feel emotionally invested in influencer content and lose objectivity.
How Social Media Trends Affect Mental Health and Focus
Social media trends often appear unexpectedly, drawing people in even when they initially seem pointless. Over time, many people find themselves participating without questioning whether this behaviour is affecting their emotional wellbeing.
Research suggests that platforms such as TikTok are associated with reduced attention span and, in some cases, impaired cognitive function. Algorithm driven content encourages repeated consumption of short form videos, increasing reliance on social media for stimulation.
Research published in Frontiers found that user generated health content is highly addictive, particularly for young people. The repeated search for quick dopamine hits can reduce overall mental stimulation, increasing dependence on social media to fill moments of boredom.
The Rise of Health Trends on Social Media
Viral health advice is often linked to misinformation. Anyone can share wellness tips or mental health hacks, regardless of qualifications. A 2021 BMJ study found that health misinformation spreads more rapidly than accurate medical information. For popular health hashtags analysed in that year, only a small proportion of creators held professional qualifications, and very few disclosed sponsored content. Alarmingly, the vast majority of supplement related videos lacked scientific evidence.
The American Psychological Association reports that misinformation about medical care has caused confusion and, in some cases, premature death. Seeking advice from accredited health professionals remains the safest option.
Social Media and Health Recovery
The risks of unverified health advice are well documented. One prominent example involved content creator Belle Gibson, who falsely claimed to have cured cancer through natural therapies. This case highlighted how social media trends can divert people away from evidence based healthcare, sometimes with serious consequences.
Who Uses Social Media the Most
Younger Australians are the most engaged social media users. According to Sprout Social, Gen Z spends over 10 hours per week on social platforms, followed by Millennials and Gen X. While common, excessive use is not without consequences.
Harvard Health reports that doomscrolling can contribute to physical issues such as sleep disruption and increased blood pressure, as well as mental fatigue, reduced focus at work, and heightened anxiety.
Social Media and Teen Mental Health
Research shows that young people are particularly affected. A Headspace survey found that over half of young people reported declining emotional health, with many identifying social media as a contributing factor. More recent findings from the United States Surgeon General indicate that excessive social media use is linked to reduced sleep, increased harassment, body image concerns, and higher rates of depression among teenagers.
“Spending too long on social media is associated with higher levels of mental health problems, including anxiety, depression and psychological distress.”
said Headspace CEO Jason Trethowan
Social Media and Mental Health: Pros and Cons
Moderate social media use can promote connection, improve self worth, and foster a sense of belonging. However, excessive use is associated with social comparison stress, isolation, pressure, and sadness. Limiting exposure rather than eliminating social media entirely may help reduce negative impacts.
How to Reduce the Negative Effects of Social Media
There are practical ways to minimise harm:
Question viral health advice and check its credibility
Set screen time boundaries and step away from your phone regularly
Practise digital mindfulness by silencing notifications
Unsubscribe from unnecessary emails and alerts
Monitor how content affects your mood and take breaks when needed
Consider a short digital detox to reset and recharge
By: Converge