Unless you’re wise enough to have added only close friends and family that you trust on social media, and to only engage with positive conversations, it’s likely that social media is seriously adding to your stress and anxiety.
Many people say how bad they feel on there, yet continue to engage, without realising that the only way they will feel better is to build a time-line that is positive and empowering for them, and avoid all contentious issues.
We love to know
I’m as addicted to social media as anyone, or I was. In the past year though that’s changed. I do have some wonderful friends on there with whom I still communicate, but more and more I’m keeping to myself and only engaging when it makes me feel good to do so. Remember that saying:
“The pen is mightier than the sword”? (Edward Bulwer-Lytton)
Social media is the modern version of the pen. No matter whether they’re written or typed, harsh words hurt. You know that, you feel it in your stomach when you read them. So it’s vitally important for your mental health that you approach social media with caution – forever more!
No one can help you…
But you. Often loneliness is a side effect at the least, maybe the cause, of anxiety and depression, which drives us to find people to connect with. It was much better in the day-and-age where you needed to go out in order to do that, or pick up the phone and hear a voice. Even though discussions could be painful at least you could ask questions, leave, or hang up. Now we’re subject to the first thing that pops up when we logon and often get mired by scrolling to the detriment of our mindset.
If you want to feel better you have to be the main person who helps you. The help and support of others is wonderful, but if you’re not the team leader then no one else can help you.
So be a leader, take control of social media. If you are on absolutely everything it may be healthier to choose your favourite, that will cut down your exposure and time very quickly. But whatever you do, if you find social media upsetting, stop hurting yourself.
All it needs is a quick readjustment of your connections and things will be much brighter, and so will your mind and emotions.
To your happiness
Deb xx
Deb Hawken 