Network Technology

People today are less engaged in the community compared to the previous generations. Research shows that they are currently attached to isolation and prefer less social connection. They often do not get out of their house and don’t make friends with others. They prefer to stay in their comfort zones and not be disturbed.

With deeper study, researchers found out that the reason for this drastic change has something to do with social media. People’s perception towards making friends and social connections is now different. And since it is more convenient to talk to someone with the help of a mobile device connected to the internet, most individuals believe their physical presence is not needed anymore.

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The Mental Health Correlation

With all the benefits of social media, one negative thing about it surely stands out – its impact on everyone’s mental health. Social media has been reported to affect people’s emotional and mental states for a lot of reasons. It can be the basis for mobile gaming addiction, social media addiction, anxiety, depression, and sometimes trauma. Social media can also influence self-harm and suicide and can be a tool for cyberbullying, pornography, violence, and sexual harassment.

Though many individuals can manage their mental health better and avoid these particular conditions, some are not strong enough. These people struggle to find balance in their lives as they dwell more in the “what’s new” section of most social media pages.

Almost social media platforms are alike. They tend to make everyone feel that sharing positive sentiments, blessings, and future wishes in their posts and videos is compulsory. However, not all individuals can appreciate that. Most often than not, everyone receives a mean comment about their appearance, size, weight, outfit, lifestyle, and more. These mean comments, though not everyone takes them seriously, can cause someone to feel bullied, insecure, unloved, and unworthy.

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Self-Comparison Causes Less Self-Awareness

Another part of the problem with social media that is taking a toll on everyone’s mental and emotional health is self-comparison. If you think about it, not everyone can eat at a fancy restaurant, go on a luxurious vacation, buy the latest versions of computers and mobile devices, reserve a million-dollar concert ticket, and spend a lot of cash without worrying about their bills. The idea that someone posted something worthy of appreciation can be the worst feeling for someone who is jealous and inferior. And these negative feelings are what transport a mental health downfall.

The self-comparison habit promotes jealousy and inferiority, which eventually damage self-esteem. Thus, people are expected to try hard to live like someone else they adore or lose their self-uniqueness. Or they can just lock themselves in their room and cry in complete despair for being unable to have that kind of privilege and good life. There is no more room for self-appreciation and self-awareness at this time.

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Fake, Imaginary, And All Lies

Jealousy and inferiority are honestly baseless emotions that people should not be concerned about because social media is often fake. Though not all, most people post pictures, travels, gadgets, and achievements from an imaginary content of their lives that they want others to internalize. Some of these people are craving to get noticed. They want appreciation and respect. Unfortunately, their way of obtaining that is through making a lie about their life experiences and sharing it with their social media accounts.

However, to get it straight, not all posts are fake; some are just unrealistic. Most often than not, things that are posted are either curated or idealized versions. It involves a lot of Photoshop or photo editing work to be able to come up presentable. It is not a bad thing to enhance something that is already there. However, the exaggeration is limitless but pointless. People would do everything just to get recognition but can’t take a second to look at the consequences of their actions.

Pointers To Takes

It is essential to note that social media is not definitively the cause of most mental health conditions. Its particular involvement in mental health illnesses is widely known but is not the ultimate reason for having a diagnosed disorder. Undeniably, the association of mental health and social media is strongly bonded, though.

Final Thoughts And Takeaway

Social media is now a global necessity and often a requirement for social identification; some are still trying to fight the mental health danger it brings. Some still choose not to engage with negative and mean comments, remove toxic people from their friends lists, and even delete their social media pages.

But whether you choose to stick with using these platforms, always remember that your overall wellness matters. You need to secure your mental and emotional health and not let a product of the internet cause you to suffer. Be careful on using social media, and check your mental health frequently. It would be best if you could look for better ways to enjoy your free time and not stay too long on these addicting platforms.

Seek professional advice and consult a therapist if you think there’s a problem with your social media demands and usage.

Technology is the fast ever, growing system integration that has helped us over the past years. It provides us with easier access to things such as smartphones. And with this particular device, it gets easier for us to communicate and get 24/7 updates with people through social media platforms.

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Staying in touch is so much easier with our phones, and we love its convenience. With just a click of a button, we can learn and discover a lot of things. We can instantly get notified of people’s current achievements. We can check and access their private lives and look through their lifestyle changes.

But greater convenience requires immense responsibility. To clearly explain, it is not literally the social media platforms and websites that are causing mental health problems such as anxiety. Rather it’s the way we use it. It’s the addiction associated with constantly checking what’s new and what others are currently busy with. It’s the anxiousness of not knowing what’s supposed to be known.

Reality In Today’s Generation And Social Media

With the internet and technological advancement, it is hard not to get sucked and stuck in social media. We constantly tell ourselves that we can control it and only a couple of searches and scrolls will do while putting off our responsibilities. However, we find ourselves in a loop. The more we allow ourselves to get stuck with our phones, the more it becomes hard for us to let go of the device and quit social media.

Just imagine a situation where we don’t have a signal, no internet connection, and low battery, or we accidentally forget to bring our phones with us; the amount of anxiousness is building up. And just imagining that these scenarios can happen in multiple instances makes us want to be cautious more in these particular situations. And that is what social media anxiety is all about.

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Mental Health Condition – Social Media Anxiety

Social media anxiety is almost like an addiction. It is where we constantly think about our phones because we want to see through the notifications and updates. And just hearing it pop a sound makes you want to grab and use it instantly. This anxious feeling is real, and it takes away the fun of using social media.

Another reason this social media anxiety flares up is our eagerness to know everything. We don’t want to miss out on trends. We experience this high regard for satisfaction from engagements, shares, and likes. And when we fail to achieve these rewarding feelings, we get mentally and emotionally unstable.

With this, it is imperative to check on ourselves to address the mental health issue. Social media anxiety can make us feel less aware of our surroundings. Like addiction, it makes us compulsively check our social media every few minutes. It makes us feel uncomfortable and anxious whenever we are not able to see what’s new and what’s in for the trend. It also makes us negate social interactions with real people and decreases our communication skills.

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Ways To Get Rid Of Social Media Anxiety

Make It A Conscious Choice To Use Your Phone

If we make it a conscious choice to use our phone, it gives us an edge to be in control of what we do with it. We can have the option of whether we should use it for social media or just simply for communication purposes. And in line with real-time face-to-face conversation, scheduling our usage can give us the power to be in the present. Also, part of conscious awareness is the limits of the amount of social media we install on our phones. If we do not have a lot installed, the less we would want to engage with our phones.

Move Your Phone Away From An Easy Access

It might not be convenient at times, but moving or keeping our phones away and placing them somewhere else that is not easily accessible can help with social media anxiety. Let’s say we are talking to a friend in the living room, and it requires our full attention; we can keep our phones in different parts of the house, such as the bedroom or the kitchen. Knowing that our phones are far of reach gives us the feeling of not wanting to get them immediately. Thus, it saves us from mental and emotional agony.

Focus Your Attention To Something Else

Another way to exert control of social media anxiety is through the diversion of attention. Concentrating on other things instead of constantly thinking about our phones allows us to become more aware of our true needs and wants. We can also use this moment to think about our lapsed social media time as a chance to see more than we expect from the platform. This particular change of habit can instantly convert our anxiety into excitement.

 

Social media has ultimately changed the lives of the online community in our generation. It affects people’s lives more than we realize.

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Social media has been the most promising thing ever in human history. It allows us to utilize our smartphones to stay connected. It makes us scroll endlessly on beautiful things around us that we do not happen to see often. But with all its benefits, it somehow seems to be doing more damage to our physical health or cause and mental health issues. So before creating a profile and joining social media communities, we should be aware of social media apps policies and guidelines.

What Are The Other Possible Damages Of Social Media Effects? 

It Often Affects Sleep Negatively

The reason social media platforms deprive us of our sleep is not entirely limited to wanting to be with our phones for a longer period. Instead, it is about the disruption of our natural sleep rhythm. Our mobile devices, particularly our computers and smartphones, emit blue light inhibiting our body’s production of melatonin. That blue light entirely ruins our circadian sleep rhythm. It gives us unwanted mental stimulation right at the wrong time.

Social Media Will Rob Your Time

While social connectivity sites can be a great pastime and a source of relaxation for others, it does not hide the fact that it robs us of quality time with ourselves and others. Studies show that using the likes of Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Youtube can increase time spent on our devices, making us more socially isolated and unaware of our surroundings. It outright keeps us from seeing friends and somehow prevents us from forming a new healthy relationship.

Social media platforms honestly are responsible for most of our missed opportunities as it makes us shut out of the real world.

It Constantly Impedes Your Personal Obligations

Along with the negative impact of social media use and presence, such as robbing us of our precious time, it also affects us in terms of our goals in life. Social channel makes us lose our limitation of ourselves and forget all our responsibilities and healthy boundaries.

Whether it relates to home duties, school requirements, or work-related tasks, it can sap our time and energy into something unrelated to our real-life obligations. It distracts us from doing what we have to do.

 

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It Increases Your Anxiety And Depression

Many studies have shown social media as a contributing factor to our anxiety and depression nowadays. It has something to do with the quality of socializing that we do. Yes, it is helpful in terms of finding an emotional connection and searching for the best new support groups.

However, in most cases, negative interactions such as bullying, trolling, video sharing, and posing can contribute a lot to our overall dysfunction. Social anxiety and depression from social media also have a lot to do with our distorted view of other users from different social media platforms. Since a person can have a large following online, it becomes difficult to focus on setting boundaries.

High Chance Of Honestly Getting Addictive

Social media is built to connect people whenever and wherever they are. There is something about social media usage that hooks us without even realizing the bad side effects of using too much of it. Social media causes addiction as it increases low self-esteem and bad sleep patterns, and promotes prolonged stress.

Social media addiction is a disorder that affects individuals, mostly young adults, due to the increasingly unrealistic perception of life and beauty in general.

It Also Encourages Envy

One way social media ruins our self-confidence is its contribution to the negative feeling called envy. However, there is nothing wrong with looking at some other people’s achievements and admiring their lavish lives. But users share information like vacation photos, luxurious bags, and high-tech gadgets that sometimes make us feel hopeless, it wreaks havoc on our self-esteem.

The posts users create on social networking sites make us compare our lives to others while questioning our capabilities. Thus, social media makes us feel dissatisfied with our reality and make us unappreciative of our achievements.

 

 

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Social Media Makes An Interpretation More Difficult To Know If It Is Real Or Not

According to a licensed professional counselor from the American counseling association, another issue with social media posts is the unrealistic interpretation of personal profiles and everything. The best example to start with is beauty, where the audience finds it a norm to add filters almost in every photo they take. But social media is not only limited to that. In terms of information, it gets to the bottom of the struggle of determining fact versus fake.

It can influence to believe even the most unrealistic stuff

posted, liked, and shared by thousands of adults and young people. Creating content on social media websites becomes the number one source of illegitimate scope and unnecessary status updates .

Why Can Too Much Social Media Usage Affect Our Ability To Communicate And Interact?

Too much social media interaction already affected our communication and interaction with other people. Social media sites make us unable to think through our actions and behaviors because we cannot see others’ facial expressions on this social media platform. A social media site, such as Facebook, makes us quick to judge and often makes us believe the first thing we see online.

Popular social media websites make us emotionally inexperienced in navigating different societal situations. That explains why instead of talking about mistakes and patching things up, it becomes easier to block and unfriend facebook users because their opinion is not well-received.

A Friendly Reminder

If you or your loved ones have been dealing with social media issues, find out how social media counseling may be able to help you. Because regardless of how users engage in their social media accounts, some of them still suffer negatively. Seek mental health professionals, send direct messages or talk to a mental health provider for clinical advice.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the internet community important?

What are the advantages and disadvantages of the internet community?

What is the impact of the internet community on our life?

What is the positive effect of social media?

What are the risks of using social media?

Why is the internet community dangerous to our privacy?

Why is social media addictive?

What is the impact of social media on youth?

How can you stay safe on social media?

How can we use social media safely?

Online Therapy/Therapists Discussion

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The fast-paced innovation in today’s generation makes everybody’s lives convenient and more manageable. That is because there are a lot of things that technology can provide, including virtual therapy or online therapy programs.

Everything is just a click or a tap away from home electronics to office needs. But one of the best impacts of technological advancement is online therapy. Since today’s world is full of uncertainty, isolation, stress, and emotional and mental health issues, seeking online treatment has been an excellent outlet for overall improvement.

Therapy: Online Therapy

Online Therapy – How It All Works

Online therapy also refers to online counseling or therapy where people receive assistance from licensed mental health counselors, licensed clinical social workers, or professional counselors for emotional and mental health conditions via the internet. It could be through video conferences, phone calls, live chats, and emails.

Online therapy service includes online cognitive behavioral therapy, licensed marriage and family therapy, couples therapy and a lot more.

What Are The Advantages Of Online Therapy?

The Online Therapy For People With Physical Limitations

According to the American counseling association, an online therapy program is the best option for those people with physical limitations that require emotional and mental help as well as mental illness medication. It spares them time and hassles to go to hospitals and clinics only to seek the best online therapy programs and get health insurance.

Online therapy providers offer them a broad range of comfort in doing the whole counselling process without exerting too much effort. It allows them to be independent, especially during a traditional therapy session that usually discusses personal issues. Seek the best online therapy counseling services.

A Good Option For Remote Areas

Online counseling or group counseling platforms benefit those living in remote areas because they can access it almost anywhere. They only need to have internet and a computer or mobile device, and they are good to go. Online therapy sessions can start almost immediately because there is not much hassle during the live chat. And if counselors and clients are busy, they can remain connected through emails.

Convenience And Affordability Of Online Therapy

The best online therapy platforms save people’s financial matters as online therapy costs are more affordable compared to in-person therapy. People can also find the best mental health professional or licensed professional counselor that specializes in mental health problems through the best online therapy websites and apps. These are convenient, accessible, and secure. Some of them include MindShift, Calm, Talkspace, Sober Grid, MoodFit, Happify, and many more.

Online Therapy Is More Accessible

Again, the emphasis of an online therapy platform is its accessibility for emotional and mental health issues. It is an adaptable option that caters to people’s needs and all types of concerns, from anxiety or panic attacks to depression, from romantic relationships to marital challenges. People engage with online counseling support because they can easily choose and find their preferred counselor directly from their homes. They can also access therapist availability and schedules.

 

 

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Online Therapy Disadvantages

The Confidentiality And Privacy

While there are many benefits to online counseling, there is still some disadvantage that the community of people experience in some instances. One of those is confidentiality and privacy. That is because when things are shared online, it is a possibility that a piece of information might leak.

The data might get used on other things that security issues come into play. Some counselors might promise to provide a safe place and security, but most are not concerned with confidentiality, especially since sessions are only done via live chat or video call sessions.

Online Therapy Can Have Unreliable Discussion

There is a significant chance of miscommunication between clients and counselors because people may find it difficult to put complex thoughts and emotions through an example of an online platform. Even if a phone call or chat-based therapy session may seem convenient, some may still find it unreliable for details and information required for the counseling.

Online help can be great with an immediate connection, but it does not always guarantee a genuine conversation between clients and counselors.

Computer And Online Concerns During The Therapy

Another issue people might find a little bit of hassle is the computer and internet concerns that might occur at any moment. Though technology is entirely helpful, it still fails in certain circumstances. Thus, it would be difficult to follow scheduled sessions when there is no internet connection.

The mental health professionals and clients might lose interest in connecting with the process again. Computer and internet concerns may be the least of people’s problems, but it is entirely a big deal for seeking online help.

The Lack Of Physical Presence Online

The art of counseling is to provide emotional and mental health care to individuals struggling with a romantic relationship, family issue, a particular career, and life. Online therapy can make patients feel a little skeptical about the process as they might not feel confident or comfortable talking about their deepest secrets to the mental health trained professionals they didn’t have a chance to meet in person.

 

 

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Conclusion

There are pros and cons to traditional and online counseling. But both of them are still viable options for better emotional and mental health condition. Therefore, there is not much to worry about regarding what people should or shouldn’t choose. It will all go down to our preference. Besides, online therapy accept insurance thus you don’t need to worry much about online therapy cost.

All in all, getting affordable online therapy from a  legit online therapy site is an excellent way to break the stigma of not trying to seek mental health services and advice. Thanks to technology, the psychology of counseling has become more engaging and fun.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you talk to an online therapist for free?

How effective is web counseling?

What do I need for web counseling?

How do I find an online therapist?

Is web counseling just as good as in person?

Can online therapists diagnose you?

How long are web counseling sessions?

Is web counseling cheaper?

Can online therapists prescribe medication management?

Why is web counseling not effective?

 

 

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Living with social phobia or a social anxiety disorder can be distressing to one’s daily functioning. Typically, people live their lives without consulting a doctor and getting a diagnosis and treatment plan for their SAD. Consequently, they learn poor coping methods (But, hey, don’t fret – at least you did your best).

Social anxiety disorder

Social anxiety disorder, also called social phobia, is defined as an overwhelming fear of social situations. It has something to do with the negative thoughts of rejection and humiliation. When you struggle with this mental condition, you often lose your ability to focus, interact, and communicate with others. It’s a common problem that usually starts during the adolescent years, and it can be a very distressing complication. In some unfortunate instances, it can greatly impact the different aspects of your life and even ruin your closest relationships.

For some people it gets better as they get older. They will just have to work on their social skills by managing and limiting their social interactions. This strategy often works because the more they can handle a certain group of individuals to associate with, the more they can have an idea of how to approach everyone socially little by little. However, those struggling with a severe social anxiety disorder often end up processing their thoughts and emotions since social situations can lead to other mental health distress, such as severe stress and depression.

Examples Of Social Phobia

Meeting New People – Social anxiety is difficult for a person because it will make them disregard meeting new people. They will think that their existence is unnecessary because perhaps they are not worthy enough of attention, not good-looking enough, or not presentable enough. They think that meeting new people is a lot of tasks because they will have to create a perfect personality for others to like them.

Starting or Having A Conversation – One thing that social anxiety negatively impacts is the ability to engage with others. When people with social anxiety try and start to hang out with friends or colleagues, the one challenge they face right after meeting someone is getting to know them. It takes a lot of pressure to start a conversation because these anxious people often think about what they might say or ask wrongfully. As a result, they will not engage and make room for conversation.

Voicing Opinions – People with social anxiety are often referred to as individuals who stay behind. That is because, as much as possible, they do not want to engage and voice their opinions to others. They have this negative mentality that everything they say can impact their social state, and people will start hating them for being too open about their ideas. Their social anxiety has much to do with many insecurities and invalidations.

Getting In  The Crowd And Parties – Socially awkward or anxious individuals hate parties. Not only because it is an event that consists of many people that might not like them, but also because it is a crowd with people with different personalities in it. For some individuals with social anxiety, getting to know one or two in the crowd is already stressful. So imagine how they would handle a lot of different personalities in one room. It takes a lot of courage to make a single connection work.

Whether you feel like you’re struggling, starting a treatment, having a relapse, or have just been told of your diagnosis, you must read the frequently asked questions and their corresponding answers below to learn more about your social anxiety.

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Can you overcome social anxiety?

It might be impossible to surpass a terrifying social situation, but you could overcome it by taking small steps and doing it one day at a time. Begin with a situation that you can manage and slowly work your way towards a more difficult situation, growing your self-esteem and coping skills as you progress up the anxiety ladder.

How can I get rid of social anxiety fast?  

To quickly remedy your social anxiety, know more about your condition by reading self-help manuals and other books that help you learn how to manage it. You should also practice relaxation techniques like meditation and deep breathing. Working with a therapist is also something that you will definitely benefit from, as you can collaborate with your therapist in creating objective goals for you. Finally, keep a positive mindset.

How long can social anxiety last?  

Social anxiety is a common condition. Research states that around 7% of Americans suffer from it. Without any treatment, a social anxiety disorder can persist for several years or even a lifetime and keep an individual from achieving life goals.

What triggers social anxiety?

You have a higher likelihood of developing social anxiety disorder if your parents or brothers and sisters have the illness. Additionally, children who have been ridiculed, humiliated, bullied, teased, or rejected may be more susceptible to developing a social anxiety disorder.

Can you beat anxiety without medication?  

Anxiety is a monster, but it is possible to overcome your struggle without taking any medication. Sometimes, getting rid of tension and worry is merely a matter of changing your thoughts, your lifestyle, and your behavior. Start with a medication-free strategy, and then talk to your doctor if your anxiety symptoms have not improved or have worsened.

How do I stop being socially awkward?  

If you want to stop yourself from being socially uncomfortable, remember these:

• Smile often and make eye contact with people that you are talking with.
• Show confidence by doing firm handshakes. People will love that.
• Go with people who are confident and skilled.
• Don’t be afraid to ask questions.
• Talk but also learn how to listen.

What supplements help with social anxiety?

One particular study involving patients with anxiety showed that taking niacinamide, a form of vitamin B3, led to significant relief of anxiety symptoms. Hence, B complex supplements that contain calcium, zinc, and magnesium may be beneficial for individuals with social anxiety.

How do you put yourself out there socially?

You can learn to put yourself out there more by initially starting small. It’s okay not to take big steps if you’re starting. Don’t pressure yourself all the time in social events. It’s okay to be silent once in a while, but do find time to chat, even with strangers. Lastly, find a hobby that can help you become more sociable.

What happens if social anxiety is left untreated?

Social anxiety can develop from being scared of one particular social event to multiple events or even progress into a general fear of situations and people. Severe cases of social anxiety left untreated cause depression, isolation, and other anxiety disorders. 

What helps social anxiety naturally?

Try these simple methods to help you get rid of social anxiety naturally:

• Anxiety causes changes in your mind and body but controlling your breathing helps lessen your symptoms.
• Exercises regularly
• Practice progressive muscular relaxation
• Don’t go big right away – begin with smaller steps.
• Avoid focusing too much on yourself – think of other people and things.
• Challenge your unpleasant thoughts

What is the best medicine for social anxiety disorder?

Although several forms of medications are accessible in the market, SSRIs or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors are frequently the first choices of drug proven to manage persistent social anxiety symptoms. Doctors usually prescribe sertraline or paroxetine.

Can parents cause social anxiety?  

Parents can apparently contribute to their kid’s anxiety, but they may not realize it in the way they react to their kids. For instance, permitting their child not to go to school when they are worried or afraid will most likely lead to the child feeling more anxious when they go to school the next day. 

Are you born with social anxiety?

No one is ‘born’ with social anxiety, per se. Perhaps you can remember situations and events from your childhood. However, no known gene corresponds to social anxiety, and there is no specific group of genes that can cause social anxiety.

Is low self-esteem a symptom of anxiety?  

Individuals who have generalized anxiety disorder often struggle with decreased self-confidence. They may feel insecure about themselves, or they feel useless, and this could pose a harmful symptom of anxiety disorder and longstanding implications.

What does the Bible say about Anxiety?

Philippians 4:6 states, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

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Seeking Help

Without the appropriate treatment plan, social phobia disorder can progress to becoming chronic and relentlessly alter your quality of life. Sadly, the disorder’s character signifies that you are scared of asking for the help you need.

If even talking to a family member, friend or doctor seems too difficult and daunting, try jotting down what you want to say instead and opt to send it via email or give the letter to the person yourself.

Only you can choose how to live your life with social phobia. If you are currently being treated, you may merely need to be attentive about learning coping techniques that help prevent a relapse of your anxiety symptoms.

Most people won’t be able to live entirely without social anxiety. Instead, they continue to attain an equilibrium in which their anxiety no longer affects their everyday functioning or place restrictions on the potential they can achieve.

 

 

 

Networking is one of the great things that technology has ever presented to humans. Though way back in history where it is already a thing, the current generation made everything about it quite accessible, relevant, and convenient. Thus, who would not dive into its interaction and social connection benefits? Who would not love to utilize the internet to meet new people, and of course, gather all sorts of information that is probably helpful in our everyday lives? I bet everyone would agree that we are all guilty of using social media too often. We didn’t care enough to point out some of its damages to our mental health, particularly the things related to judgments, learning, memory, and decision-making, as well as behavior control.

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Are We Addicted To Social Media?

Social media counseling experts believe that ordinary people spend almost 2 to 3 hours a day on social media. Considering the amount of time we utilize on platforms such as Facebook and YouTube, it pretty much means we can no longer live without it. It becomes necessary to scroll, comment, and watch some clips every time we find nothing to do. So does that mean we are entirely addicted to social media? Well, let’s try and define addiction for a start.

Based on the American Psychiatric Association (APA), addiction is a complex state of the brain where an individual has a compulsive use of something despite there being damaging consequences that can soon come out over time. People with addiction perform an intense focus on things that they believe is only a habit. However, that said habit usually comes to the point where it takes over their lives. It changes the way the brain functions as it intensifies the cravings day by day. Thus, it makes the habit difficult to break. So can we assume that this psychological dysfunction that’s what’s happening to us right now is already an addiction?

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What Makes Social Media So Captivating

Honestly, for most people, linking social media use to addiction is unacceptable. That is again because of the belief that it is only a habit that often saves us from boredom and distracts us from other sources of stress. Furthermore, social media websites, particularly Facebook, have quite a few good qualities that are entirely helpful, which is why it makes us want to come back to using it. The common of them all is the newsfeed, where we do not mind spending hours and hours just to view other people’s posts and pictures and gather the information that is not accessible from the mainstream media. At some point, we get overwhelmed with a lot of information we get that we often didn’t realize that we are entirely hooked into something unrelated to our lives. Thus, with a single notification on our phones, we instantly feel the need to check what is on it because we are so interested in other things that are relevant at the moment.

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The Unnoticeable Negative Vibe

While quite a few of us use social media for leisure, some valued it as an important part of their lives. Somehow, social media impacts the way we feel and changes the way we think about people and our surroundings. Unfortunately, our constant interaction with negativity from the information we get from social media news feeds also triggers whatever emotional and mental problems we currently have. That explains why most people post something bad about a particular thing; we somehow feel the need to connect with them even if we don’t genuinely have to. It means that social media does not only benefit physical interaction but has a lot to do with emotional relationships too. In some way, it could be advantageous because we learn the significance of empathy through digital means. But then, this only proves that emotions are contagious. So when we regularly attached ourselves to the world’s negative vibes, we unnoticingly incorporate it into our lives.

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Final Thought

Honestly, how we spend time with social media is not an entirety of a mental illness. We have to consider a lot of things before finally saying that our 2 to 3 hours spent on social platforms relate to addiction. But then again, its overall effects, which can take a toll on our lives, are something we should all watch out for. Because even if we seem not to care, for now, the problems that we may face along the way still has something to do with the way we use social media. So if you feel your time spent with social media is taking you away from the most important areas of your life, then you might want to consider using it less or at least take a break from it. Not only will you stay away from negativity, but you will also do your well-being a great deal of favor.

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When I was just 7-years-old, my parents got divorced because they argue a lot. Whether it is about small things that don’t matter, both of them make a fuss out of it. It is as if they can’t live without shouting and yelling at each other. I remember the first few quarrels they have; they were a bit traumatizing because I didn’t know what to do. I just buried myself into the pillows and anxiously wait for the commotion to stop. But after a couple of arguments for about a month, I finally managed to find a way to distance myself from them. That is where I find solace in playing computer games.

I can no longer recall how many times my parents ended up smashing things in the house. I can’t even remember who started the fight as well. All I can remember is the escape plans I often made just to stay away from their sight when they fight with each other. My computer games became that escape from reality. I quickly discovered that I was entirely good at not minding anyone’s business and focus on my comfort zone. And that is the start of my unwanted computer addiction.

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From Childhood To Adulthood Issue

Honestly, my computer gaming habit was supposed to be temporary. It was only intended to temporarily mark the things I don’t want to waste my energy and time with, such as my parents’ unscheduled fights. But as I grew up, things changed. My computer gaming habits became the first thing I wanted to do in the morning and the last I do at night. Well, it doesn’t entirely matter for a high school student because the only responsibility I had at that time was my school and my computer games.

Then I went to college. I should say things were a little bit the same. After a couple of classes, I always head back to my dorm and play computer games on my remaining hours before finally going to bed. It was a cycle. But then I met my girlfriend. For quite some time that I was in a romantic relationship, I spent my time accordingly. I graduated from college. 2 months after, I moved in with my then-girlfriend, now wife. Unfortunately, things changed not long after that. After so many years that I wasn’t spending time with my computer, I started going back on gaming habits once again. At first, it was only for a couple of hours a week. Then it became 2 to 3 hours a day. Now, I can’t seem to stop.

My wife delivered our baby boy just four months ago. It was a fantastic moment for the both of us. We became parents, and everything was quite okay. However, despite my effort to put everything in my hands, I could not set my priorities due to my computer gaming addiction. I failed to give my family the life they deserve because I was too focused on playing online and offline.

Source: pixabay.com

The Unhappy Ending

My other half constantly nagged about how I should spend my time productively. My wife was very considerable in my situation. She said that if ever I can’t find a job, I should look out for the baby. Well, that was very nice of her, considering that I should be the one who is supposed to financially take care of everything in the family. But then again, I was too focused on entertaining myself with my computer games. That is where that particular mistake happened and made me lose the precious things I have.

I was so overwhelmed that I get to stay at home and do nothing but play games while taking care of our baby. Unfortunately, I was not expecting an accident. My mind was preoccupied with playing, so I never checked on my baby in the other room for at least 7 to 8 hours. And when I finally did, it was too late. My boy wasn’t breathing. He flipped over in the crib, and he couldn’t get back in an upright position. He suffocated.

That incident made me lose everything. My son died because I was irresponsible. My wife left me. My parents told me that they do not want anything to do with me. My friends won’t talk to me. I am all alone. I want to blame the computer for that unfortunate situation. But who am I kidding? It was me who did that to my son. It was me who did that to myself. I was addicted to computer games, and I did not bother to seek any help. I was mentally incapable of handling things around me, and I ignored that. I was hopeless.

Source: pixabay.com

For those of you out there, who prioritize computer games more than anything, please consider getting a life. Because like any others, I was also one of the many who believe that this kind of incident never happens in real life until it happened to me.

Social media has changed our lives through the years, and it has become increasingly important during this pandemic. We get updates online for the growing cases of COVID-19 and guidelines for the “new normal” through social media. However, exposure may cause different effects on our mental health. Here are the ways how social media affects our mental health.

Positive Side

• A Source Of Information

Most people go online on Facebook to keep themselves posted about current events. Several official Facebook pages and Twitter accounts, such as the World Health Organization, provide daily updates about cases of COVID-19 and the next steps to combat this virus. Government institutions and agencies are also posting about their respective programs for their people.

• Keeps Us Connected With The People We Care About

According to Natalie Bazarova, Ph.D., “It can provide an antidote to social distancing by allowing people to stay in touch with their friends and communities.”

Now that we’re under lockdown, we are far away from our loved ones. Social media has provided a faster and more convenient way to communicate with them no matter where they are. There are different ways to have fun with them, such as playing online games through video calls. 

• An Avenue For Our Thoughts 

Social media is a powerful tool in expressing our thoughts and emotions during this pandemic. Everyone has their struggles, and by a simple post of “You are not alone” or “My lines are always open for you” can make someone feel that they have the means to open up their emotions when they’re not ready to share it online. 

• Platform For Fundraising Events 

The COVID-19 crisis has left the marginalized sectors, such as the elderly, minorities, persons with disabilities in a problematic situation. There are also stranded individuals and cannot go home to their homes because of the lockdown. Organizations and individuals set up fundraising events online to help them in any way they can, such as buying groceries.

Negative Side

• Fake News Everywhere

Because anyone can make social media accounts in an instant, this online platform is prone to misinformation. There are clickbait websites which leads us to an article that provides unreliable sources. So, it is a must that you know check the origins of the article you are reading. Also, make sure that the sources are indeed trustworthy and relayed accurately. 

• Social Media Makes You Lonelier

University of Pennsylvania’s research found out that using Facebook increases the feeling of being lonely. The study added that reducing social media usage will improve your overall well-being. 

• Fear Of Missing Out (FOMO)

According to social media counseling experts, one of the reasons we can’t let go of our mobile phones is that we fear that we might miss out on updates about other people’s lives. But truth to be told, endlessly scrolling through our social media exacerbates our feelings that others have a better life than you have right now. Social Media lowers your self-esteem and increases your anxiety.

There’s nothing wrong with taking a social media detox, as it is right for your mental health. The information won’t go anywhere, so you don’t have to worry too much if you miss out on something. 

• Depression And Anxiety

Physical interaction is always still better than online. However, we refrain from meeting with our friends because of the fear we might get infected by COVID-19. Social media is one of the root causes of why most people experience depression and anxiety. While social media provide means to connect with people easily, it may do more harm than good. 

Use Social Media Deliberately

Since we have no choice but to work or study from home and communicate with people through social media, we must intentionally use it. Set a limit to yourself when to use social media and when to stay away from your devices.

There are different ways on how you can manage your social media to prevent getting adverse effects of social media.

If you attended the last 2019 gaming phone event, you would understand the need for the perfect gaming device. Sure, there are tons of upgraded smartphones out in the market. However, only a few of them can make it to the top list. Let’s get started in knowing the technological highlights and trends.

Source: digitaltrends.com

Apple iPhone 11 is our first on the list. Though it is not the first choice you would have in mind, it is one of the best smartphones for gaming. It has a powerful chipset in super-powerful hardware. It has a large low latency screen that makes the gaming experience comfortable. Plus, it has a good battery life that can maintain long hours of game time.

Another smartphone that earns a spot on the list is One+ 70. It has been one of the few favorites after a month of its release. Same as the iPhone 11, it is not likely dedicated to gaming. However, its features can surpass other devices that offer quality when it comes to mobile gaming performance.

Next on the list is the Xiaomi Black Shark 2 and 2Pro. Compared to the first two on the list, this smartphone is dedicated to gaming, both in physical features and performance. It supports a great battery life. It has low touch latency on its OLED display. It is supported by a Snapdragon 55 plus chipset that can promise you a better gaming experience.

Source: digitaltrends.com

The crowd favorite comes next, which is the Nubia Red Magic 3 and 3’s. When it comes to design and chipsets, the Nubia Red Magic is sure for gaming. It supports a great battery life, it has an 89-hertz refresh rate, and Gorilla glass built. On top of that, it has a built-in fan that can cut down thermal throttling.

Asus ROG 2 is the editor’s choice up until today. It has the highest 100 refresh rate, which makes it quite responsive. It has a 6,000 mAh that makes it very convenient in more prolonged use. It has an almost perfect display with low latency touch. It supports an excellent chipset that makes gamers want to have it.

 

The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has kept people around the world inside their homes. Many countries observe quarantine protocols as part of the global effort to stop the spread of the virus. Staying at home has become a social duty during this challenging time. In search of productivity and entertainment, people turn to the Internet.

In her book, The Cyber Effect, cyberpsychologist Dr. Mary Aiken, PhD, says, “If you have a problem with technology, perhaps you’re not addicted, just cyber maladapted. And the good news: There are things you can do about that.” Indeed, while the Internet helps ease our burdens during this pandemic, we must observe great caution in its usage. Failure to do so can be damaging to our mental health and overall well-being.

To effectively manage Internet exposure during a public health crisis, it is essential to know its pros and cons.

Benefits Of Internet Exposure During Quarantine

1. Facilitates Communication Of Families And Friends

Family members who failed to come home due to lockdown protocols seek comfort and support through online communication. The Internet has helped maintain relationships amid restrictions on mobility and physical contact.

2. Keeps People Informed

The Internet has made information more accessible to a large population. It enables us to acquire and disseminate essential information about the pandemic. Having access to the Internet helps increase and improve the health literacy of people on COVID-19. Further, it aids government bodies in formulating and implementing policies to combat the virus.

3. Provides An Alternative Platform For Education

As a result of limited mobility, over 1.2 billion children are out of the classroom globally. To ensure continuous learning among students, educational institutions have resorted to e-learning. Teachers conduct their lectures and class activities on digital platforms.

4. Makes Productivity Possible During The Quarantine

The Internet provides ways on how to remain productive amid the pandemic. Entrepreneurs and professionals utilize online platforms for the continuation of their ventures. The Internet also offers numerous online activities that may serve as alternative sources of income.

5. Helps Improve Mental Health

The Internet serves as a reliable source of entertainment by offering various opportunities and platforms where people can watch movies, play games, and interact with people online. Apart from that, there are also reliable online therapies that can help those who are struggling with mental illnesses while unable to go to their usual sessions due to the pandemic.

Dangers Of Excessive Internet Exposure

1. May Put Our Privacy And Security At Risk

Cybersecurity risks rise as more people resort to digital platforms for their day-to-day transactions. Internet scammers take advantage of the crisis through different fraudulent schemes. Exposure to the Internet increases data and privacy risks among vulnerable populations.

2. May Reduce Personal Socialization

The Internet significantly influences our socialization process. It alters social dynamics, especially among families. People spend more time on their gadgets than on personal interactions. Unregulated use of the Internet may result in addiction, which can severely affect our personality and relationships.

3. An Avenue For Misinformation

Most social media counseling experts believe that the Internet has become a tool for the perpetuation of false information. Many websites and social media platforms contain fake news and data. If you are not vigilant enough, you can easily fall into the trap of distorted information. Misinformation can have detrimental consequences, especially at a time of public health crisis.

4. May Adversely Affect Mental Health

With the rise of freedom of expression online, people can almost always post anything on social media. The Internet can sometimes be a source of hate speech and other negative emotions. It also facilitates the spread of inappropriate content. The tolerant use of these platforms can lead to feelings of depression and dependency.

Internet activity has dramatically increased since the implementation of quarantine measures in different parts of the world. People of all ages rely on the Internet for information, entertainment, and communication. The Internet also provides various online activities that facilitate productivity at home. However, excessive usage of the Internet can have adverse impacts on our security and well-being; hence, the need to take precautions.

Internet exposure during a public health crisis is a double-edged sword. It can produce both positive and negative consequences. Knowing the pros and cons of Internet exposure is a step towards effectively adapting to our new normal.