By Dr.Vihan Sanyal New Delhi, Nov 28, (IANSlife), Most teenagers now use social media accounts such as Instagram and Facebook.It connects people around the world and allows them to see the lives of others.
Numerous studies have shown that teens who use social media excessively are bored, need an escape to their immediate environment, feel overwhelmed and stressed, lonely, lack real-time friends, or need validation and validation.
It’s okay to use social media in moderation.It can actually boost serotonin levels and other positive chemicals in the brain, and can even lift a person’s mood.
People take a selfie of their self and post it on social networks.They feel great about themselves when people comment and like it.When this becomes a routine, it can become a problem.Many people feel the need to post photos of their self multiple times per day, and then check their accounts to see how many likes they have received.
Let’s dive deeper to see what signs a person, parent, or loved one can look out for to distinguish between addiction and social media use.If we see the following signs, we can easily determine if a person is addicted.
– A person who is constantly thinking about and talking about social networks. – If they have a daily ritual of using social media several times per day – If they use social media to distract themselves from other important things in life. – If they procrastinate on other important tasks, they can use social media instead. – If they are unable or unwilling to use social media, they may get frustrated and throw anger tantrums – If they are afraid of missing out on “life”, if they don’t keep in touch on social media – How social media usage has affected their studies. – If they continue to check their social media accounts during conversation. – A person who avoids social events to be on Social Media. – If they lie about how much time they spend on social networking – If they have not been capable of reducing the time they spend on social networks.
Here are some tips for parents
These are the things that parents have found to be effective in dealing with teenage social media addiction
– Talk to the teenager about their use of social media in a loving and non-hostile manner.Remind them that you care about their well-being. – Help them plan their day and stick to the schedule. – Establish a policy of “no cell phone” at different times of day/night.No cell phones at meal times, during family time, or at bedtime. – Give tasks that require the person to be offline. – Enroll them into a new hobby. To set a good example for your teens, you should use less social media. – Get help as soon as possible from a mental health professional.
Many teenagers worldwide have been subject to harassment, name-calling and humiliation via social media.It has caused a rise in teenage mental health problems and even death.
Online bullying can have a lasting impact on a teenager’s life that can last for many years.Many people don’t fully understand the power of social media.
A person can be victim to bullying or harassment at school.This is usually limited to a few people.Social media can be used to make derogatory or negative comments about someone.It can also be permanent and seen by everyone.
This can cause serious damage to self-esteem and confidence.
There is also a link between excessive social media use and mental disorders such as anxiety, depression, sleep disorders ADHD, paranoia and delusions, suicidal thinking, and self-harm.
Users should be careful about how much time they spend on social networks.Users need to recognize the signs of social media addiction, and take the necessary steps to stop becoming addicted.
How much time should someone spend on social media?
Studies have shown that social media usage for 30 minutes per day can boost a person’s mood.However, using social media for more hours than two hours per day can increase the chance of developing depression symptoms.
You need to find a balance and make use of social media effectively.Social media platforms can be a source for enjoyment and fulfillment if they are used responsibly.
They can make a person feel good about himself, help them stay connected with their friends around the world, help them share ideas and thoughts with others, and help them feel happy.They are also informed about social events and given the chance to showcase their talents and skills.
What can you do if you are addicted to social media?
Psychotherapy can be used to help young adults stop using social media too much.There are many effective methods.
These are some of the most effective tools that professionals use to help people.
Counselling: This type of counselling allows people to explore their inner feelings in a non-judgmental and safe environment.It encourages awareness and helps people come up with other options.
CBT: Cognitive Behavioural Treatment is also known as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy.CBT is a way for people to recognize unhelpful thoughts and correct them.CBT professionals are trained to help clients recognize such thoughts and correct any errors in their thinking.
This helps to correct the behavior and improves moods and feelings.
Mindfulness: Mindfulness can be a powerful way to increase awareness and decrease restlessness and hyperactivity.Mindfulness can help people feel more grounded, cantered, and recognize their emotions and feelings.Many deep-seated emotions can be brought out and released.
It is important that you connect with a mental healthcare professional to help you live a more fulfilling and meaningful life.Many are trying to reduce their time on social media.
Social media abuse and use has increased since the pandemic.Sometimes, it’s not something that a person can do on their own.Sometimes external professional help is required.
Dr.Vihan Sanyal, Psychotherapist
(IANSlife can also be reached at ianslife@ians.in
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