
Social media is a modern-day phenomenon. Most of us use platforms throughout the day including Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. However, the fun elements of social media can easily give way to the need to constantly check in on what friends and celebrities are posting. Social media has become a tool of comparison where we present only the best images of our lives. Research links heavy social media use to an increased risk of mental health issues such as anxiety. Therefore, it is no surprise that more of us are experiencing social media-induced anxiety and depression and asking the questions "should I take a social media break?" and "is there an anxiety therapist near me who can help?".
Signs You Might Need a Social Media Break
Social media has its benefits in terms of connectivity and helping raise awareness of societal issues. However, if you find yourself preoccupied with thoughts of posting new updates and keeping the world informed about what you are up to, it may be time to consider taking a social media break.
Another unfortunate result of social media for some people is the constant comparison of their lives to individuals and celebrities in their social media feed. It is important to remember that peoples' social media feeds are simply a highlight reel of their lives and are not an accurate reflection of their true, human experiences. If you find that you are increasingly comparing yourself to others, it may be time to put the screen down and engage in the world around you.
Other signs you may need a social media break include becoming frequently angered by what you are reading. You may find that you are engaging more with online comments than you are in the real world. Other signs include scrolling mindlessly through social feeds and making social media the first and last thing you check every day. The time spent focused on your screen is time that you're taking away from caring for your own personal mental health and relationships.
Ways to Take a Break from Social Media
There are some simple ways to instigate a social media break including:
Schedule specific social media use times: Setting conscious time limits allows you to be in control of your own actions.
Social media free days: Scheduling days off from social media allows you to take the pressure off of yourself to constantly check your phone for updates.
Use an app to control usage: Logging the number of hours that you're spending on social media allows you to take control over your schedule.
Turn off notifications: Turning off notifications turns off the temptation to check your phone.
Speak to friends and family the old school way, in person or on the phone: Engaging with friends and family in person by speaking on the phone can help deepen connections and relationships that may otherwise be strained due to excessive social media usage.
By taking a break from social media, you may be able to significantly reduce the amount of anxiety that you have surrounding your social media usage. However, if you are still concerned about your mental health and you're asking the question "do I need to consult an anxiety therapist near me?" then B'well Counseling Services can help.
B'well Counseling | Find an Anxiety Therapist Near You
B'well Counseling Services is a mental health therapy practice offering a full range of therapeutic services including online counseling in Towson, MD and the Greater Baltimore area. We believe in helping people rekindle their curiosity and reconnect to their core selves so that they can truly be well. We value wellness and connection over happiness because we understand that being able to experience the full range of human emotions and experiences is what helps us heal and grow. At B'well, we are dedicated to creating a space for anyone who has ever felt unwelcome because of their identity, orientation, or expression.
B'well Counseling Services offers Telehealth Therapy Services. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
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