The Role of Social Media in Mental Health

Source: Divided We Fall

Social media can connect us, but it can also harm well-being if used without awareness.

Benefits

• Maintains connections across distance.

• Provides spaces for support and community.

• Can raise awareness and normalize conversations about mental health.

Risks

• Comparison trap: Curated feeds lead to feelings of inadequacy.

• Addiction: Endless scrolling hijacks attention and sleep.

• Misinformation: Unverified health content can mislead.

Healthier Use

• Curate feeds—follow accounts that uplift rather than drain.

• Limit screen time, especially before bed.

• Take intentional breaks from apps to reset perspective.

Takeaway

Social media isn’t inherently good or bad. How you engage with it determines whether it nourishes or depletes your mental health.