Overuse of social media during pandemic impacts mental health

Research suggests that the regular use of social media platforms is linked to an increase in the incidence of anxiety.

This year the Covid-19 pandemic has sparked a major uptick in social media usage. As people around the world have been unable to spend quality time with friends and family members, due to social distancing measures, many have relied heavily on their devices as the only means for interaction. Undoubtedly, there are numerous benefits to using social media. Many old and new platforms became the primary manner to stay current with accurate news and health information, connect to loved ones, participate in viral challenges and stay on top of celebrity gossip.

But despite the positive benefits of social media, evidence has shown that there are harmful consequences as well — especially as it pertains to our mental health. Research suggests that the regular use of social media platforms is linked to an increase in the incidence of anxiety, depression, ADHD, eating disorders and addictions among users.

During this pandemic, it is particularly important that we recognise the potential negative consequences of social media use not only because many of us are turning to these platforms with an increased frequency but also because there are specific issues relevant to the 2020 pandemic and social media issues that can have a negative impact on our mental health. Here are a few that we have noted:

Increased used of screens

As we spend more time at home, our overall use of technology has increased. This includes tablets, phones, televisions and computer monitors. All of this screen time greatly increases our overall exposure to a frequency of light referred to as blue light. This blue light interferes with melatonin metabolism and leads to poor sleep and irritability which impacts our mental health.

Information overload

Reports of increasing numbers of death, illness, grief, unemployment, loss of businesses, food insecurity, evictions and homelessness are constant reminders of the pandemic-related devastations that currently grip our nation. This repeated sharing of disturbing news can negatively impact the mental health of those social media users who are overexposed to this tragic material. Feelings of anxiety, depression, increased irritability, and excessive worry are likely consequences of being exposed (or overexposed) to this deadly health crisis information.

Covid-19 misinformation

From conspiracy theories to false information about cures, there is an abundance of misinformation spread on social media platforms about the novel coronavirus. Overexposure to inaccurate and false information can be confusing and overwhelming, ultimately leading to increased anxiety, mistrust, stress, and depression.