Why It’s Okay to Take a Break From Social Media During a Pandemic

     We are still facing off against the pandemic, and it’s taken a toll on everyone’s mental health. Many of us have mental health problems from anxiety over the virus, or because it has affected us economically. 

     However, there’s one culprit that may be even worse for your health: social media. Social media stress and anxiety are real, and it’s important for you to realize that it’s okay to step back. Here are some reasons why social media can be bad for your mental health.

Why It’s Okay to Take a Break From Social Media During a Pandemic
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Scary Stories

     While the COVID-19 pandemic is a big concern, social media can exaggerate just how bad things are. Stories of worst-case scenarios of the pandemic can fill your feed. You may start believing it’s impossible to end it. Speculation about the virus mutating into something unstoppable can fill your feed as well. While it’s important for you to keep up to date, many stories tend to only show one side and exaggerate it.

     You may get into this phenomenon known as doomscrolling, where you can’t stop scrolling through negative news on your feed. This can make it harder for you to see positive news. From medical breakthroughs to stories about humans helping each other out, these all may be obscured by the negative.

Misinformation

     Another reason for you to reconsider social media use is because of misinformation. The pandemic is a rapidly-evolving situation, but there are news outlets making news not in good faith.

     For example, you may hear misinformation about fake cures for the virus, or information saying the virus isn’t dangerous. Even information that seems legitimate may not be. We don’t blame you for becoming distressed as you try to figure out what is real and what is not.

Arguing

     Social media and arguments mix together like peanut butter and jelly. Sadly, you may be getting sick of all the fighting. From political debates to arguing over irrelevant stuff as you’re packed inside your home, it can wear thin on you.

     It may even lead to you arguing with people you considered to be good friends. In a time of uncertainties, keeping up with your friends is essential, but there are times where you need a break.

FOMO

     FOMO, or fear of missing out, is prevalent on social media. In the pandemic world, FOMO can mean that your friends and family are getting the vaccine when you can’t. It also can mean seeing people who live in safer areas traveling about. FOMO can make you feel distressed, envious, and it doesn’t do well for your mental health. Keep that in mind.

Distracting

     Another reason why social media may be bad for you at this time is that it’s so distracting! The combination of all of the above may make you want to keep going on it when you could be spending your time doing something else. If you are working from home, this can cause other issues, such as a loss in productivity. Plus, there are better things you can do.

What’s the Answer? With all that said, what is the answer? You have a few strategies.

Cold Turkey

     Some people just quit everything cold turkey without any notice. This may work well, but it’s tempting for you to reactivate or remake your social media accounts. Beware of this step unless you have dedication. Also, be sure to tell your friends and have alternative ways for you to

Cutting Back

     Many people realize that social media is necessary nowadays. You need it to keep up with the news, your friends, and to network. Some may believe the answer is to cut back on how much time you spend. Perhaps set a time to view social media, then no other time.

What You Can Do

     There are several steps you can take:

Delete the Mobile Apps

One way to stop spending so much time on social media is to delete apps off your phone. When you do this, you can be able to use social media less without deleting your profile entirely. Of course, you can always reinstall apps or use an internet browser. Which is why you should…

Use Distraction Apps

     There are apps that will limit your social media time or forbid you from visiting certain apps. If you have no self-discipline (no shame, many of us don’t,) then taking advantage of these apps can help you cut back on your own time. There are also apps that can monitor how much time you’re spending. This can help you set some goals to go on social media less.

Do Something Else

     Every time you catch yourself on social media, think about what else you could be doing. You could be doing another hobby you love, or doing something else that entertains you. Think of some hobbies you’ve always wanted to try, and then act on them. You may find out that you love them a lot more than social media.

Curating Your Feed

     With that said, when you are on social media, adjust the experience to the best of your ability. Here are some actions you can take. 

• If you see someone sharing information that makes you mad, don’t be afraid to mute, unfriend, unfollow, or even block them. 
• Try to like and follow more positive accounts that have interesting, funny, or other information that you like to read. 
• It's okay for you to take a break from the news of the world for the sake of your mental health.

Seeking Help

     Sometimes, it seems like it’s impossible for us to kick the social media habit. That’s when you should look into seeking help from a therapist. Instead of spending your time on social media, speak to a therapist. They can help you kick the habit by allowing you to be more mindful and finding the root cause of your addiction.

For more information, just click below to get started on getting the help you need.

https://www.betterhelp.com/advice/psychologists/what-is-continuity-psychology/