Today, social media occupies a significant portion of adolescent life. It enables individuals to maintain friendships, share images, and gain knowledge. However, excessive use of social media platforms negatively impacts mental well-being. Teenagers often experience feelings of sadness, loneliness, and anxiety when they compare their own lives to others’ online portrayals.
By viewing carefully curated online content, teens may develop the impression that their own lives are inadequate. Their self-confidence can suffer when they measure themselves against the idealized lives presented on social media. Excessive social media use also reduces the time available for sleep, studying, and face-to-face communication.
Teenagers who overuse social media tend to experience higher stress levels and fatigue, which in turn affects their academic performance. Balancing social media usage requires the adoption of mindful and intelligent practices. Time limits, regular screen breaks, and increased physical activity can help create a healthier digital lifestyle.
Parents and teachers must engage in open communication with children about the risks associated with excessive screen time. Using social media properly is essential; while it offers many benefits, it also requires careful management. Maintaining a balanced approach to digital activities safeguards mental health and contributes to an overall better quality of life.