Effect of Social Media on Child’s Mental Health and When to Consult a Child Counselor

 

Introduction

It’s no secret that social media has integrated itself into the daily lives of most teenagers. Teens are completely engulfed in the online world of social media, whether they are posting reels on Instagram, chatting on Snapchat, or dancing on TikTok. But overuse of these social media platform is harmful and may lead to anxiety in children.

How does social media affect teenagers’ mental health?

Social media may have a big influence on teens. Social media may have serious detrimental consequences on a teen’s mental health, and it’s not just a matter of missing sleep and becoming preoccupied throughout the day.

 

The growing adolescent brain is particularly susceptible to the effects of internet time. Additionally, because teenagers may find it difficult to self-regulate their screen time, there is a higher risk of damage from exposure. Therefore, teen social media use frequently links to:

 

·         Loneliness

·         Jealousy

·         poor self-esteem

·         sadness

·         “If you’re not online, you’re missing out – you’re not a part of the group.”

 

 

Depression and anxiety

Even while experts are still learning more about the connection between depression and social media, what they have found implies that using social media more frequently may make depression symptoms worse. Teens who experience it typically show a rise in loneliness and a decline in social activity.

Anxiety is another element. Many teenagers have a strong commitment to their social media profiles and content, which puts a great deal of pressure on them to answer promptly, upload attractive photographs with clever remarks, and, of course, get plenty of likes. When cyberbullying and other unpleasant online behaviors are included, it’s simple to understand why social media causes kids so much worry.

Low self-esteem

Social media can also have a negative impact on a teen’s mental health by aggravating any underlying issues with poor self-esteem. When they follow certain celebrities and influencers online, they are especially prone to feeling negative about their bodies and themselves. More individuals are providing them with material, comments, and pressure than they ever would in the actual world. Teenagers will find it simple to engage in a risky game of comparison when they view other people’s online curated feeds and assume they are happier, more attractive, or wealthier than they are.

Parents should  limit their teenager’s use of social media?

There are various situations where a parent should limit their teen’s usage of social media.

 

·         Addiction is the first explanation. If social media consumes a significant amount of their day, interferes with their sleep and academic performance, and they lack the self-control to set limits on their use, it may be time to intervene and set some restrictions.

·         The second reason is if you have cause to think your adolescent is engaged in or is exposed to inappropriate and reckless internet behavior. Teens shouldn’t be allowed to have their own social media profiles until they can act appropriately online.

·         Thirdly, it’s a good idea to limit your teen’s usage of social media and seek professional assistance if they exhibit symptoms of a mental condition like depression, anxiety, or disordered eating that is tied to social media.

However, restricting or prohibiting social media use won’t usually solve the underlying problems and could even make things worse. you must consult a Child Counsellor that can provide child counseling to your child, Thus helping in elimination of social media anxiety.

Is social media good for teenagers?

Social media has numerous drawbacks, but it also has advantages for youngsters.

 

·         Create online personas and participate in communities

·         establishing social networks and communicating with people might help individuals discover support, amusement, diversion, humor, education, and details about social movements and human rights concerns.

Conclusion

Social media has numerous benefits, thus it’s crucial for teenagers to become social media savvy in order to be ready for adulthood, when social media will undoubtedly continue to play a significant role in everyday life. To discover the correct balance between social media use and mental health, you may engage with your adolescent. And if you’re concerned that your teen’s usage of social media is interfering with their academic performance, you must consult Child Counsellors from TalktoAngel: an online platform for Child Counseling and therapy. They have highly qualified child psychologist that provide treatment at comfort of your home. They help in overall well being of the child.