Social media is a dominant force in teen life. While it can offer connection and entertainment, its constant presence also contributes to anxiety and depression in adolescents. Our team sees firsthand how social media affects teen mental health and offers strategies to create balance. Many of our parents find this helpful - we hope you do too.
Unrealistic Comparisons: Nowadays, teens will compare themselves to influencers in the feed, or peers who appear to have "perfect" lives. This can lead to feelings of inadequacy, low self-esteem, and hopelessness. It can be at home, the bus, at school, sports, etc.
Fear of Missing Out (FOMO): Sometimes, all it takes is one post. Seeing others attend events or hang out without them can trigger anxiety and social exclusion, along with hurt feelings.
Cyberbullying: Bullying was always around, but with he computers, profiles, anonymous and catfish users- anyone can be a keyboard hero. Digital harassment can be relentless and emotionally damaging if not caught early on. Victims of cyberbullying are at increased risk for depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts. It's important to know these signs to look for.
Sleep Disruption: Sleep is so important to growth, health, and more. Excessive screen time, especially before bed, can disrupt sleep, a crucial element of mental health functioning and the ability to retain information.
Constant Validation Seeking: The pursuit of likes and comments can lead teens to equate self-worth with digital approval, affecting their emotional resilience. Here are some ways we are seeing families tone down the social use...
If your teen becomes increasingly anxious, withdrawn, or exhibits mood swings, consider speaking with a mental health professional. Power of Hope offers individual and group therapy to help teens process and reduce the influence of social media on their well-being.
Social media isn’t inherently harmful, but its effects on adolescent mental health should not be ignored. With awareness, boundaries, and support, teens can use technology in healthier ways. Power of Hope Youth Center is here to help teens manage anxiety and depression in today’s digital world.