Social media plays a huge role in the lives of many teenagers today. Multiple platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat provide opportunities to connect with friends and share personal experiences. While these platforms can be enjoyable, they also have some serious consequences for mental health and how individuals perceive themselves. 

One major concern about social media is the pressure to present a perfect life online. Many teens only share their best moments, such as exciting vacations or stunning selfies. In this generation, all teenagers usually have an influencer they look up to. The way some influencers portray their lives may be degrading to others because people feel like they need to live up to those standards, when in reality, those posts are just a highlight reel of their lives, leaving out what is truly going on. 

All of these things can make others feel like they are less than the person in comparison. Research shows that the constant comparison of what is “ideal” or “perfect” on social media can lead to low self-esteem, anxiety, and even depression. The desire for likes and followers can create a drastic amount of stress that many teens struggle to manage.

Cyberbullying is a growing online issue. Unlike traditional bullying that may have occurred at school before social media became a thing, online bullying can occur anywhere and at any time. A hurtful comment or meme can spread quickly, leaving victims feeling worthless and hurt. These comments can cause people to take drastic measures like tragic self-harm and suicide. According to a study completed by Old Dominion University, children who experience bullying are twice as likely to attempt suicide as their non-bullied peers. Twenty percent of minors who are cyberbullied consider suicide, while 10 percent attempt to take their own lives, resulting in approximately 4,500 deaths per year.

The anonymity of the internet often makes bullies feel very entitled, allowing them to act without fear of repercussions. This can result in serious mental health challenges for those targeted, and in some tragic cases, devastating outcomes.

Further on, time spent on social media can interfere with sleep patterns. Many teens find themselves scrolling through feeds late into the night, losing their much-needed rest. 

Lack of sleep can lead to mood swings, difficulty concentrating, and a decline in overall mental health. Since teens are still growing and developing, getting enough sleep is crucial, and social media often distracts from this essential need.

Although there is a lot of bad along with social media, social media can also provide valuable support and a sense of community for many teens. For those who may feel different or alone, these platforms can connect them with others who understand their struggles. 

Finding an online community can alleviate feelings of loneliness, and many organizations leverage social media to share mental health resources and coping strategies.

To help teens navigate the good and bad of social media, it’s essential to have open discussions about its impact. Parents, teachers, and caregivers should guide teens in recognizing the differences between online personas and real life. Encouraging regular breaks from screens and promoting face-to-face interactions can significantly improve mental health. 

While social media has its benefits, it’s crucial to acknowledge its effects on teens’ mental well-being. By engaging in open conversations and encouraging healthy habits, we can help teens use social media in a positive and supportive way. The goal should be to empower them to connect with others meaningfully, rather than letting them feel pressured or anxious.