Social Media and Mental Health
Monday, October 7, 2024
I think that we can all agree that the fall semester is a busy one at OSU. From sharing memes with your friends to documenting game days, social media can be a fantastic way to connect and unwind during our hectic college schedules. While it keeps us in the loop and lets us express ourselves, it can also bring some unexpected challenges for our mental health.
The Double-Edged Sword
Let’s be real—social media is a huge part of our daily routine. We scroll through Instagram during breakfast, post about that late-night study session on X and share TikToks that perfectly sum up our feelings. It keeps us connected and entertained, but it can also bring some serious stress and anxiety.
A study published in the Journal of Social and Clinical Psychology found that limiting social media use to just 30 minutes a day can lead to significant reductions in feelings of loneliness and depression. Imagine spending less time scrolling and more time living! But, like, how do we actually do that when everyone else is posting their highlight reels?
FOMO is Real!
One of the biggest culprits of social media-induced anxiety is FOMO— the fear of missing out. You know the drill: you’re studying in your room while your friends are out having the time of their lives. Suddenly, you find yourself spiraling, wondering if you’re missing out on an amazing moment that seemingly everyone else is living.
According to research from the American Psychological Association, this constant comparison can lead to feelings of inadequacy. We see perfectly curated posts of our peers at parties or on spontaneous road trips, and it’s easy to forget that they’re likely only sharing the best moments.
Finding Balance
So, how do we reach a balance? Here are a few tips I’ve found helpful:
- Set Boundaries: Consider setting specific times when you’ll check social media. Maybe designate social media-free hours, especially during study time or before bed. Your mental health will thank you!
- Curate Your Feed: Follow accounts that uplift you and unfollow those that make you feel bad about yourself. It’s all about surrounding yourself with positivity.
- Digital Detox: Ever thought about taking a break? A short detox from social media — even for a weekend — can provide a fresh perspective and help you reconnect with the world around you.
Real Talk: You're Not Alone
It’s important to remember that mental health is something we all deal with, and you’re definitely not alone in feeling overwhelmed. According to the 2022 National College Health Assessment, an average of 28.4% of OSU students surveyed reported that mental health negatively affected their academic performance. Talking about it is key! Whether it’s with friends, family or a counselor, sharing your feelings can lighten the load.
OSU cares about your mental health and has a variety of resources that are available to all students! Check out a list of all of the mental health resources available here.
The Bottom Line
As we experience another great year here at OSU, let’s make a collective effort to use social media in a way that enhances our college experience rather than detracting from it. Remember, behind every perfect post is a real person with real struggles. Let’s support each other in navigating the ups and downs of social media while keeping our mental health in check.
So, here’s to a semester filled with great memories — both online and offline. Let’s embrace the journey, support each other, and keep it real, Cowboys!
Until next time, stay connected (but not too connected)!