Effects of Social Media on Self-Esteem and Anxiety
Aug 15, 2024
Social media has transformed interaction and communication, but it also generates negative effects on mental health, especially on self-esteem and anxiety.
Impact on Self-Esteem
Social comparison: Exposure to idealized images of bodies and lifestyles leads to feelings of inferiority.
External validation: The number of “likes” and comments influences self-image, reducing the perception of personal worth.
Impact on Anxiety
FOMO (Fear of Missing Out): Creates anxiety when seeing others’ activities, generating a sense of exclusion.
Addiction and stress: Excessive use and constant notifications activate reward circuits similar to other addictions, leading to dependence and discomfort.
Mediating Factors
Active vs. passive use: Browsing without interacting increases anxiety, while positive interactions can mitigate effects.
Personality and context: People with low self-esteem, body image issues, or social anxiety are more vulnerable.
Strategies to Mitigate the Impact
Promote conscious and balanced use of social media.
Educate about social comparison, highlighting the filtered nature of online content.
Encourage face-to-face interactions to reduce social anxiety.
Social media can be useful for connection and self-expression, but they also intensify social comparison and anxiety, especially among the most vulnerable. Using them mindfully and in balance is key to protecting mental health.
Effects of Social Media on Self-Esteem and Anxiety
Aug 15, 2024
Social media has transformed interaction and communication, but it also generates negative effects on mental health, especially on self-esteem and anxiety.
Impact on Self-Esteem
Social comparison: Exposure to idealized images of bodies and lifestyles leads to feelings of inferiority.
External validation: The number of “likes” and comments influences self-image, reducing the perception of personal worth.
Impact on Anxiety
FOMO (Fear of Missing Out): Creates anxiety when seeing others’ activities, generating a sense of exclusion.
Addiction and stress: Excessive use and constant notifications activate reward circuits similar to other addictions, leading to dependence and discomfort.
Mediating Factors
Active vs. passive use: Browsing without interacting increases anxiety, while positive interactions can mitigate effects.
Personality and context: People with low self-esteem, body image issues, or social anxiety are more vulnerable.
Strategies to Mitigate the Impact
Promote conscious and balanced use of social media.
Educate about social comparison, highlighting the filtered nature of online content.
Encourage face-to-face interactions to reduce social anxiety.
Social media can be useful for connection and self-expression, but they also intensify social comparison and anxiety, especially among the most vulnerable. Using them mindfully and in balance is key to protecting mental health.