How Does Social Media Impact Anxiety?

Teens and young adults have more depression and anxiety than ever before. Many researchers believe there’s a direct connection between rising rates of mental illness and time spent on social media.

The more time spent on social media, the more likely a young person is to become socially withdrawn, anxious, and depressed. Teenagers spend an average of about five hours a day on social media. Millennials spend a bit less (three hours).

Why does the correlation between time on social media and anxiety appear to be so strong?

• Along with other life necessities, time on social media leaves little time to socialize with real-life friends. Indeed, teenagers are spending far less time going out and much more time staying home than previous generations did.
• Spending time on social media can make teenagers (and adults, too!) feel like everybody else is having more fun. Most people only post photos or videos themselves doing exciting or positive activities. You see people having parties, families on vacation, as well as touched-up glamour shots. When you believe that you don’t measure up on social media, you may feel bad about yourself and your life.
• According to the United Nations, about a third of all young people have experienced some form of cyberbullying. Cyberbullying is often willfully repeated, malicious, threatening, or humiliating information sent across social media platforms. This type of bullying can increase anxiety. Unfortunately, a few adolescents have actually committed suicide as the result of this form of abuse.

Does social pressure lead to anxiety?

Social pressure (the belief that you should act, look, achieve, or conform to an expectation) frequently leads to anxiety. If someone doesn’t meet those expectations, they may believe that they’re judged as not good enough.

There is tremendous social pressure to achieve a certain level of financial success. Those who are unable to achieve that feel victimized and criticized by others.

Youth and beauty are very powerful examples of social pressure. When time inevitably moves on, a multi-billion-dollar industry steps in to help. Not feeling young or beautiful enough makes people feel that they aren’t good enough overall, which can lead to feelings of inadequacy and anxiousness.

There are strong pushes to follow the norms of society. When someone doesn’t conform, they may fear being judged. This leads to feeling out of place and anxious.

Do you have more questions about anxiety? Dummies has answers! Check out 100 Questions & Answers About Anxiety For Dummies for compassionate explanations, treatment insights, symptom spotlights, and practical strategies.