| By Tara Shekouri |
In our modern world, we have access to endless information, resources, and opportunities for connection and innovation due to technology. Although a helpful tool and resource, it is no surprise that such interconnectedness is a major concern, given that it sucks away at the thrill of face-to-face, offline experiences. Social media addiction is a behavioural addiction that may present itself as an uncontrollable desire to use social media, a constant fear of missing out on what is happening online, and investing excessive time and energy in social media usage. Removing social media from one’s life entirely is unrealistic and quite unattainable nowadays, though it is important to educate ourselves about the consequences of excessive usage.
A recent study at Harvard University found that self-disclosure on social media platforms engages the same area of the brain that is lit up while using addictive substances. The brain's reward region and its chemical messenger paths influence judgments and feelings. When a person experiences something pleasant or consumes an addictive substance, neurons in the brain's primary dopamine-producing regions are stimulated, and dopamine levels increase. Social media offers a continuous stream of instant gratification, often as attention and validation from others with minimal effort—such as through likes, comments, and follows. Through such positive reinforcement, the brain reprograms itself and craves more.
The issue escalates when someone sees social media as a coping technique for anxiety, stress, depression, or isolation. For such individuals, they gain experiences they may crave in real life, online—triggering a cycle of constant usage. Eventually, this could lead to a number of interpersonal issues, such as neglecting obligations in the workplace or school, one’s physical health, and relationships with friends and family, which can eventually aggravate unwanted emotions.
One may not recognize that they are attached to social media due to it having become a habit in their life. Here are some questions one can ask themselves if they suspect they are at risk of developing an addiction to social media:
Does their social media usage impact their work and/or academic life?
Do they use social media as a coping mechanism?
Do they think about social media while completing other tasks or activities?
Do they feel urged to stay closely connected to the online world?
Although reducing one’s screen time is a solution for many to detach from social media, more severe cases may require professional treatment, such as psychotherapy.
great blog!