POSITION PAPER

“THE EFFECTS OF SOCIAL MEDIA ON MENTAL HEALTH AND WELL-BEING”

KISHA MAY VALDEVARONA ILAIDA

GRADE-12 ABM-D FINANCE

FEBRUARY, 2023
Social media has become an integral part of our lives, providing an endless source of
information, entertainment, and connection. However, as the popularity of these platforms
continues to rise, concerns about their impact on our mental health and well-being have become
increasingly prevalent. In this position paper, we will explore the various ways in which social
media can affect our mental health, both positively and negatively, and discuss the importance of
establishing a healthy relationship with these platforms.

One of the most commonly cited positive effects of social media is the way in which it can help
to increase feelings of connection and social support. For many people, social media provides a
platform for forming and maintaining relationships with friends and family members, regardless
of geographical distance. This can be particularly important for those who feel isolated in their
daily lives, as it can help to combat feelings of loneliness and provide a sense of community and
belonging.

However, while social media can certainly have positive effects on our mental health, it can also
have negative effects if not used in moderation. One of the most significant concerns is the
impact that social media can have on our self-esteem and body image. The constant comparison
to the filtered and often highly curated lives of others can lead to feelings of inadequacy, low
self-esteem, and even depression.

In addition to its impact on our individual mental health, social media can also have a negative
effect on our relationships. For many people, social media has become a primary source of
communication and connection, which can lead to feelings of distraction and disconnection from
the people around us. In some cases, social media can even lead to feelings of jealousy and envy,
as we compare our own lives to the seemingly perfect lives of others.

Given the many potential negative effects of social media, it is important that we approach our
use of these platforms with mindfulness and intention. Setting boundaries around our usage can
help to reduce feelings of distraction and negativity, and establish a healthier relationship with
these platforms. This might mean limiting our time spent on social media, or setting aside
specific times during the day for scrolling and engagement. Additionally, engaging in self-care
practices, such as mindfulness and exercise, can help to counteract the negative effects of social
media and promote overall well-being.

As social media continues to evolve and become even more integrated into our daily lives, it is
essential that we consider the ways in which these platforms are affecting our mental health and
well-being. This might mean advocating for changes in the way that social media platforms are
designed and operated, or simply taking a more intentional and mindful approach to our own use
of these platforms. Regardless of the specific steps that we take, it is clear that the future of
social media will have a significant impact on our mental health and well-being, and it is up to
each of us to shape that future in a positive and meaningful way.

In addition to individual action, it is important to consider the role that social media companies
play in promoting mental health among their users. These companies hold significant power and
influence, and it is up to them to prioritize the well-being of their users and create platforms that
are designed to support and enhance mental health, rather than detract from it.

One potential solution is for social media companies to implement more robust mental health and
well-being policies, including tools for monitoring and managing online activity, as well as
resources and support for those who may be struggling. This could include features such as time
management tools, alerts for excessive usage, and in-app resources for mental health support and
self-care.

Another solution is for social media companies to prioritize transparency and honesty in their
marketing and advertising practices. This could mean a move away from heavily filtered and
curated content, and towards a more authentic representation of life and experiences. This shift
would help to reduce feelings of inadequacy and comparison, and promote a healthier
relationship between users and these platforms.

Finally, social media companies can also play a role in promoting mental health by partnering
with mental health organizations and experts to provide education and resources for their users.
This could include in-app resources, educational campaigns, and partnerships with mental health
organizations to provide support and resources for those in need.

In conclusion, it is important for social media companies to take responsibility for the impact that
their platforms have on the mental health and well-being of their users. Through a combination
of robust mental health policies, transparency and honesty in advertising practices, and
partnerships with mental health organizations, these companies have the power to shape the
future of social media in a way that prioritizes the well-being of their users.

As someone who is deeply invested in their own mental health and well-being, I have always
been cautious about my use of social media. While I can certainly see the positive effects that
these platforms can have on our lives, I am also acutely aware of the potential downsides. For
me, this has meant setting boundaries and being intentional about the time that I spend on social
media. It has also meant being mindful of the content that I engage with and the impact that it
may have on my mental health.

To sum up everything that has been stated so far, social media is a complex and multifaceted part
of our lives, with both positive and negative effects on our mental health and well-being. As we
continue to navigate this rapidly changing landscape, it is important that we remain vigilant
about the impact that social media is having on us, and take steps to establish a healthy and
mindful relationship with these platforms. Whether it means limiting our usage, engaging in self-
care, or advocating for change, it is up to each of us to shape the future of social media in a way
that supports our mental health and well-being.