Addiction
The term “addiction” is often associated with substances like caffeine and tobacco. However, in recent times, it has also become closely linked to social media addiction, particularly with platforms like Facebook. Facebook addiction has emerged as a prevalent phenomenon, attracting significant attention from the media and researchers alike. In fact, a specific scale has been developed to measure Facebook addiction. A recent study asked individuals about their current desires and revealed that many preferred browsing Facebook over other activities.
Decreased Life Satisfaction
For some individuals, using Facebook can exacerbate feelings of inadequacy about their own lives in comparison to the seemingly more glamorous existence of others portrayed on the platform. Humans inherently have a tendency to compare their lives to those of others, often evaluating their circumstances as either better or worse. Facebook offers a constant stream of updates showcasing moments from others’ lives, such as dining at high-end restaurants or receiving prestigious awards. This can create a persistent sense of discontent, leading individuals to feel that others enjoy a more fulfilling life, and that life has been unfair to them.
Additionally, Facebook usage can diminish users’ satisfaction with their own physical appearances. Researchers attribute this to the tendency of users to compare their body images with the pictures of friends on the platform. Such comparisons can negatively influence individuals’ nutritional habits, potentially resulting in eating disorders as they strive for a more aesthetically pleasing and slimmer physique.
Reduced Sleep Quality
There is no doubt that sleep and mental health are closely interconnected. Insufficient sleep can adversely affect mental well-being, especially among children and adolescents. Sleep is a critical period during which the body undergoes mental development, which continues into a person’s twenties or thirties. Numerous studies have confirmed that social media use, including Facebook, can negatively impact the quality and duration of sleep, particularly when usage occurs shortly before bedtime. This is primarily due to electronic devices emitting LED light, which can disrupt the brain’s natural processes that promote drowsiness and trigger the production of melatonin, the hormone responsible for sleep.
Anxiety and Depression
Research indicates that anxiety and depression rates among young people have surged by 70% in recent years. Social media users often acknowledge that their experiences on these platforms contribute to increased anxiety levels. Social media can foster unrealistic expectations, leading to diminished self-esteem and an incessant pursuit of perfection, which in turn fuels elevated anxiety levels. The impact of anxiety is particularly pronounced in younger individuals, as pervasive feelings of fear and worry can hinder their ability to engage in normal daily activities, whether it be attending school, going to work, or even stepping outside. Consequently, anxiety can be classified as a specific disorder that significantly affects an individual’s mental health.