Social Media Mania
Are teens too dependant on social media?
On average, teens spend seven to nine hours on social media a day. While social media can be used as a tool for connection, education or entertainment, intrigue often turns into addiction. Whether from boredom or negative side effects, many social media users are deciding to leave their favorite platforms altogether. But is social media really all bad?
“Social media creates a bonding area for most of us,” one Juan Diego sophomore commented on the issue. “Rants on TikTok or venting on Twitter – it’s relatable.” A junior said, “It’s also a good way to find interesting viewpoints or discover people that you have similarities with. It shelters a lot of communities who feel like they don’t have an outlet in real life. …It shelters a lot of communities who feel like they don’t have an outlet in real life. — JD Junior
Clearly, social media has lasting positive benefits. “I get a lot of my news from social media. Of course, I research (what I hear), but my primary source is usually Twitter,” said another sophomore. However, there are those who choose not to participate.
“It’s such a waste of time. Get off TikTok,” added a junior. “I would much rather talk to someone face to face rather than stare at a screen,” commented a JD senior.
The negative effects of social media on a teen’s mental health and lifestyle can be overwhelming. Research has identified strong connections between heavy social media use and an increased risk for depression, anxiety, insecurity, and even self-harm. “You can spend a lot of time online and not see what’s outside of social media,” said one junior.
Our JD students and staff seem to recognize these issues, too. History teacher Mrs. Jacobs said, “You (don’t) gain anything from it. You (don’t) make connections with other people, you (don’t) experience any real joy; it’s just a time-suck.”
A sophomore added, “I had to pull myself away from Instagram because I felt… insecure. Why are their lives better than mine, why are they prettier than me, stuff like that.”
There’s no denying social media’s benefits: it can be used as a powerful vessel for connection. However, all forms of technology can be addictive and damaging. Most experts recommend distancing yourself from social media and instead spending time focusing on things that bring you joy.
I ask myself: why do I care about what these people are doing?
— Mrs. Jacobs
“Get outside. Spend time away and find some balance,” advised a JD sophomore. “I ask myself: why do I care about what these people are doing?” said Mrs. Jacobs. She advises students to try limiting their screen time.
An easy way to take a break from social media is to spend what would usually be screen time doing something else that brings you joy. Call a friend, watch TV, read a book, work out, or practice a hobby. Learn how to balance your time on and off of social media. Take it slow, be kind to yourself, and enjoy finding new interests and hobbies!
