Social Media or Social Distancing

Summer begins and the social media feeds become ever so populated with pictures and videos of all the places people visit during their vacations. Just a few minutes on any platform are enough to leave you feeling jealous that your friends and loved ones are experiencing such ecstasy while you prepare for another day of work.

Social media has many benefits, it certainly was a source of connecting and entertainment during the pandemic lockdowns. However, when discipline is lacking or when we neglect social interaction in exchange for emulated connections, we may fall prey to the dooms of becoming socially distant.

The research community has mixed findings, with some arguing that the impact of social media on social isolation is minimal and statistically insignificant (Sewall et al., 2020). Still, other claim that high social media use results in feeling of greater social isolation and negative experiences on social media platforms result in even more negative effects (Primack et al., 2017; Primack et al, 2019).

What can we do when trying to grow more resilient, find abounding joy, and still be able to enjoy all the cat memes social media has to offer?

I find that these five tips help me remain disciplined with my social media to avoid falling into social distancing:

1. Don’t just scroll or swipe, engage with actual people in meaningful connections.

2. Schedule a time when you will indulge in social media use.

3. Remember that what you see on social media is an intentional and curated selection… and it’s probably edited.

4. Avoid comparing yourself to others, focus on your personal growth and your unique story.

5. When you start feeling low, remember that it’s okay to take a break from social media and reinvigorate with social community!

References:

Primack, B.A., Shensa, A., Sidani, J.E., Whaite, E.O., Lin, L.Y., Rosen, D., Colditz, J.B., Radovic, A., and Miller, E. (2017). Social media use and perceived social isolation among young adults in the U.S. American Journal of Preventative Medicine, 53(1), 1-8.

Primack, B.A, Karim, S.A., Shensa, A., Bowman, N., Knight, J. and Sidani, J.E. (2019). Positive and negative experiences on social media and perceived social isolation. American Journal of Health Promotion, 33(6), 859-868.

Sewall, C.J.R., Goldstein, T.R., Wright, A.G.C., and Rosen, D. (2022). Does objectively measured social- media or smartphone use predict depression, anxiety, or social isolation among young adults? Clinical Psychology Science, 10(5). 997-1014.