“Water can carry a boat, but it can also capsize it.” This proverbial wisdom rings true even in the age of social media, where while it enhances interactions and reduces feelings of loneliness, it also comes with drawbacks that can impact mental health. Experts say that frequent use of social media is linked to irritability, making individuals more prone to anger or distress.
Professor Lynn Zubernis from West Chester University in Pennsylvania highlighted in a recent Psychology Today article that compared to 30 years ago, many people now spend a significant amount of their daily lives interacting online or seeking information. The question arises: Does the use of social media have negative effects on mental health?
Unfortunately, Zubernis pointed out that the answer to this question is a resounding “Yes.” Early studies have found a correlation between high social media usage and depression in both adolescents and adults, leading to a decrease in subjective happiness.
A study published this month further discovered a complex relationship between social media usage and another significant mental health issue – irritability.
Irritability is characterized by a negative emotional state, making individuals more prone to anger or distress. It can make individuals feel out of control and trigger emotional responses to minor stimuli.
Irritability can affect daily functioning, especially in social relationships and career success. Higher levels of irritability are also associated with more severe consequences, including the risk of violent behavior and suicidal thoughts.
The study revealed a significant increase in irritability scores associated with frequent social media use, especially for those who post regularly on these platforms.
There exists a dose-response relationship, meaning that the more time spent online, particularly in actively posting and engaging, the more likely individuals are to experience irritability. This relationship becomes particularly pronounced when individuals spend “most of the day” using social media.
Moreover, when individuals frequently engage in online political discussions (rather than passively consuming news, including political news), this relationship becomes even stronger. Regardless of one’s personal interest in politics, the frequency of posting and discussing politics correlates with irritability.
While taking into account other mental health symptoms such as depression and anxiety, this study, being correlational, cannot prove a causal relationship between social media usage and irritability. It only suggests that there is a connection to some degree.
Of course, using social media also has benefits for mental health. How can individuals maintain these benefits while mitigating the negative impacts of irritability on relationships and success? This study offers some useful suggestions.
Zubernis emphasized the importance of the frequency and duration of social media use. Rather than checking social media every few minutes throughout the day, allocate specific periods (or multiple intervals) for using these platforms.
Research indicates that consciously choosing to use social media during leisure time, and enjoying it without feeling guilty, maximizes its mental health benefits.
Engaging in activities like chatting with others or watching videos of influencers during dedicated leisure time for social media use can help alleviate stress and boost happiness.
Zubernis also advised on how to navigate social media use. Set boundaries to find like-minded online friends. Be mindful of the time spent and set limits if necessary, using timers or access management tools to restrict social media usage.
In conclusion, social media serves as a tool for leisure, entertainment, socialization, and information. Like any tool, it should be used wisely to maximize its benefits.