In today's digital age, social media has become a ubiquitous part of our lives. Platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Snapchat have become an integral part of how we interact with our friends and family. However, for some individuals, the use of social media can become compulsive and addictive.
Social media addiction refers to the excessive use of social media to the point where it negatively impacts one's daily life. Individuals who are addicted to social media often spend an excessive amount of time scrolling through their feeds, checking notifications or posting updates. This behavior can lead to a decrease in productivity and even affect one's mental health.
According to recent studies, 210 million people suffer from social media addiction globally. In the US alone, 63% of adults use at least one form of social media platform daily. The average person spends over two hours a day on their devices checking social media platforms.
The constant stimulation and gratification from likes and comments on social media channels can cause a dopamine release in our brain leading to addiction-like behavior. The negative impact of social media can affect the user’s emotional well-being leading to anxiety, stress, depression or high levels of aggression.
Like other addictive substances or behaviors, companies apply clever tactics to get us hooked on their platforms; they use data analysis such as constant alerts - “push” notifications - and personalized content based on user activity that encourages more usage.
There are many digital wellness apps available that can help individuals control their time spent on various apps or games features that track screen time usage or even directly block access temporarily.
In some cases, patients are required to abstain from all forms of technology for a lengthened period with professional guidance as per several rehabilitation programs.
Digital detoxing suggests taking time off the phone or the computer system, even if for a short time, doing things you enjoy, taking walks outdoors and reconnecting with loved ones or joining community activities.
