Reflective Essay Example. Social Media and Mental Health

How do most people use social media today? I believe that social media is taking humanity out of us. It can be loathsome but pleasant at the same time and there are many reasons why social media have pros and cons which will be discussed later on. If we all come together, we can find a solution for this. 

What really annoys me on social media is all the cyberbullying. For example, did you know that a celebrity was cyberbullied before? That’s right I’m talking about Selena Gomez, Selena has had her very own experience in the past and even had to step away from posting personally on her Instagram account, due to the horrible comments she would see. “It’s like they want to cut into your soul. Imagine all the insecurities you already feel about yourself and having someone to write a paragraph pointing out every little thing - even if it’s just physical,” Selena confessed. Selena’s advice, “It can be great in moments, but I would be careful and give yourself time limits in terms of when you can use it and not.” In conclusion, cyberbullying can cause a lot of pain mentally, and sometimes you just need to step away from it. 

Some people may argue that social media is helpful. They might believe that social media provides academic research allowing people to access previously unreachable education resources, like staying informed with world events. SmartSocial.com states that “More than ever, teens' voices are heard often now because of social media.” Social media is important because it can allow you to engage with an audience in faraway places. When a business needs to sell or advertise its products, they can use social media to bring awareness to them so people will buy them, although some people may not like it and would find it annoying. Overall, social media might not be so terrible after all. 

You may think that there is no solution to social media, but there is! Don’t engage in any of the social media like Snapchat, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, Tik Tok, etc. For example, insider.com states that “It's important to take breaks from social media because studies show that spending too much time scrolling can increase feelings of stress, anxiety, and depression. To take a break from social media, you should turn off notifications, set time limits, and prioritize your own self-care with other activities you enjoy.” Just take a break from it for a little while, and stand up for yourself if you’re being cyberbullied. 

I am very hopeful for change to endure for social media. Let’s all come together and take action. Like Jon Ronson once said, “The great thing about social media is how it gave voice to the voiceless people."