DUBLIN: Feeling lonely despite being surrounded by millions of social media users? You’re not alone. According to new research, individuals who passively scroll through social media feeds without posting themselves are more vulnerable to feelings of loneliness, stress, anxiety, and even depression.
A recent study conducted by the University of Bournemouth in Britain found that young adults who engage in passive content consumption on social media platforms are more likely to experience negative mental health effects compared to active users who share their own content. These effects include anxiety, depression, and stress.
The university surveyed nearly 300 social media users and discovered that not only does passive scrolling contribute to feelings of sadness, but the stress levels decrease when individuals actively create and share their own content without engaging in direct social interactions.
Constantina Panourgia, senior lecturer in Developmental Psychology at the university, explained, “This finding emphasizes the positive aspects of active non-social media use, such as sharing public content. It allows users to receive feedback, such as likes and positive comments, without the pressures of direct social interactions.”
According to the latest annual global report by We Are Social, the world’s 4.76 billion social media users spend an average of two and a half hours per day on these platforms. Previous research has also shown that excessive scrolling through negative news stories contributes to increased anxiety levels.
This phenomenon became more pronounced during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns when individuals relied heavily on online platforms for social interactions and work-related activities. By understanding the impact of social media use on mental health, individuals can make informed decisions about their online activities and prioritize their well-being.
– dpa
Credit: The Star : Tech Feed
