6 Tips for Healthy Social Media Use

Social media is a significant way in which we interact in our world today. Our every comment, like, or share engages others. Although social media is valuable in connecting us with others, it can foster negative thoughts and feelings. All too often, a scroll through one’s feed offers up engagements, weddings, births, graduations, vacations, and grand adventures--all the good moments of someone's life. Only seeing the good can be hard on our mental health when we start to compare. Exposure to another's negativity impacts our mental health too. A tweet we do not agree with or a post we find upsetting can spur negativity in us as well. So, how do you guard against social media’s drain on your mental health? Here are some tips.

1. Know when to take a break. Checking social media is a norm for most of us, a part of our daily routines, a habit. However, when this habit is starting to impact your mental health, one easy solution is to take a break. You do not have to delete your account, only the app.  Fill the time you usually spent on social media with other activities you enjoy, such as reading, playing a sport, or watching a movie. When you feel ready, you can add the apps back to your device.
2. Critically think through the content you are exposed to on social media. Misinformation is common online and spreads through social media networks. When you come across information, be sure to take the time to evaluate it. Is this a trustworthy source? Is this news replicated anywhere else? Is this information based on credible research or reporting? Although this sounds taxing, it is vital to understand what we see online before we let ourselves react to it. Be a smart consumer and investigate information.
3. Understand how to keep yourself safe on social media. Most social media apps have privacy settings. These settings allow you to choose who can view, comment, share, and like your profile and content. Monitor these privacy settings to protect yourself.
4. Be mindful of the information you provide about yourself online. Be careful when adding your location to posts, and be cautious of what you share. For example, it is best to wait until you return from a trip to share about it. Recognize that you have a digital footprint that will follow you online, and anything you post gets added to it.
5. Use social media as a chance to engage rather than compare. As the quote often attributed to Theodore Roosevelt goes, “comparison is the thief of joy.” When you go through your social media feed, keep in mind that you often see only the good, small moments of another’s life rather than the full picture. Instead of comparing yourself to others, aim to engage. Comment positively on an old friend’s post. Reach out to a relative. Use social media as a tool to interact and foster relationships rather than the standard of how you should be living your life.
6. Follow people and things you enjoy. An easy way to induce positive feelings when using social media is by controlling the content we see. Be mindful of who you accept as a friend on social media, and be selective in choosing who you follow back. If you have a family member whose views you disagree with and upset you, unfollow or mute them. Follow an account that will make you happy instead, such as one that posts funny videos of pets.

Photo: ©iStock.com/scyther5