The digital detox movement encourages regular logging-off from ALL online activity to improve our Mental Health and well-being. But what do we know specifically about the negative effects of social media on mental health? And how might less time on social networks actually benefit us?

 1. It can lead to comparison envy

We all know (don’t we?) that everyone puts their best face on Social Media. But even with this knowledge it seems that frequently viewing friends’ updates about their seemingly perfect or glamorous lives can negatively impact us. 50% of the participants in a University of Salford (UK) study – all of whom identified themselves as social media users – say that their use of social networks like Facebook and Twitter makes their lives worse. In particular, participants noted that their self-esteem suffers when they compare their own accomplishments to those of their online friends.

2. Longer periods of time on social platforms is linked to eating disorders.

A study has found a prominent link between eating disorders and social media use. In particular, women who spent longer periods of time on Facebook had a higher incidence of ‘appearance-focused behaviour’ (such as anorexia) and were more anxious and body conscious overall. What’s more, just 20 minutes on social media platforms was enough to contribute to a user’s weight and shape concerns. This is a particular warning flag for parents of teenage girls and a good starting point for any family discussions on digital media use.

3. Unchecked use can damage romantic relationships.

A 2009 study suggested Facebook makes ‘unique contributions to the experience of jealousy in romantic relationships.’ And divorce lawyers increasingly report that Facebook flirtations are frequently cited in their cases. There’s even a Facebook page called “I wonder how many relationships Facebook ruins every year?” with over 17k ‘likes’.

Experts encourage couples to negotiate rules and boundaries together to avoid encountering these sorts of problems. Relationship status updates, photo tagging and accepting friend requests from exes are amongst the suggested topics up for discussion.

4. Overuse is linked to narcissism and low self-esteem.

In a recent study scientists evaluated Facebook users using both the Narcissism Personality Inventory and the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale. The researchers looked closely at evidence of the participants ‘self-promotion’ on their Facebook pages. Self-promotion was defined as things such as updating statuses every five minutes, frequent posting of selfies, photos of celebrity look-alikes, and ‘self-glorifying’ quotes and mottos. The researchers concluded that the people who used Facebook the most tended to have narcissistic or insecure personalities.

None of this research suggests that social media can spontaneously cause mental health problems. But it does suggest that overuse might amplify and worsen an existing problem. If you know there are areas that are issues for ‘offline’ then keeping a careful eye on your time spent on social media platforms online may help keep you healthy.

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