When discussing the potential dangers of social media, the conversations are usually focused on children and teens. However, social media can be equally dangerous for adults. While there is nothing inherently wrong with social media, it can be associated with a number of issues such as stress, anxiety, loneliness and depression.
Let’s dig deeper into the potential dangers surrounding social media use for adults. If you feel that your social networking is becoming problematic, contact CTRLCare Behavioral Health for social media addiction therapy in Princeton NJ.
Understanding the Risks of Social Networking
Social media can be beneficial in many aspects of life. It allows us to find others who share the same interests as us, as well as introduce us to new interests and hobbies. However, there are some concerns regarding the excessive use of social networking. Let’s discuss them in more detail.
Social media addiction
Many people are becoming addicted to social media, checking their accounts every few minutes and waiting for comments and updates from friends. Even though some people are aware that social media can be addictive, they are psychologically predisposed to using it.
Believe it or not, social media is actually addictive. It activates reward centers in the brain, making it difficult for people to control their use. In fact, the pull of dopamine is so strong, studies show that it’s harder to resist social media than cigarettes or alcohol.
Loss of productivity
People who are dependent on social media spend lots of time on social networking sites, scrolling through news feeds, catching up on the latest gossip and posting updates. This cuts into their day and ultimately interferes with their productivity.
Unfortunately, when a person is unable to complete their work or responsibilities, they become stressed and nervous, pushing them toward social media to feel better. It’s a dangerous cycle that’s hard to break – but it can be done with social media therapy in Princeton NJ.
Emotional exhaustion
Have you ever seen people argue online? Over 71 percent of social media users have seen content that made them angry. Some people take it to the next level by arguing about the matter. But this only causes them to be upset – usually over topics and people that don’t really matter!
Reading through others’ opinions all day long, as well as arguing online, is bound to lead to emotional exhaustion. People must remember that they can’t force their opinion on others. It’s best to preserve this energy and use it on more important things.
Mental health problems
Stress, depression, anxiety, loneliness and envy are all direct side effects of too much technology use. These problems creep up because people compare their ‘true’ lives to the picture-perfect lives of others.
Let’s face it. People tend to post their best online. Family vacations. New homes. Job promotions. Seeing all of this day in and day out affects how we feel about ourselves – and not in a good way. This leads to depression, envy and jealousy that can seep into our everyday lives.
CTRLCare Behavioral Health offers personalized social media addiction treatment in New Jersey. We can help you develop healthier ways to use technology so that you can be happier and healthier. Contact our behavioral health team to learn more about our treatment services.
