Social media platforms are designed to snare your attention, keep you online, and have you repeatedly checking your screen for updates.
But, much like a gambling compulsion or an addiction to nicotine, alcohol, or drugs, social media use can create mental health problems.
There’s little research to establish the long-term consequences, good or bad, of social media use. However, multiple studies have found a strong link between heavy social media and an increased risk for depression, anxiety, loneliness, self-harm, and even suicidal thoughts.
With many people spending time at home in isolation, screen time has increased. More celebrities and influencers are now partnering with brands and dominating social feeds selling products. Should you be following such people?
Professor Renata Schoeman, a member of the South African Society of Psychiatrists, said…
