Getting bummed out by TikTok and Insta may seem like the opposite of how social media should make you feel. But the truth is, these platforms can be real downers. In fact, U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy recently warned that teens who spend more than three hours a day on social media double their risk of developing mental health problems. “There is growing evidence that social media use is associated with harm to young people’s mental health,” Murthy said.
While it’s true we could all use a break from our favorite apps from time to time, you don’t need to swear off your favorite platforms forever. There are many ways to improve your well-being while still being active on social media.
These strategies don’t require huge changes in your behavior. Even just noticing how you’re feeling while you’re scrolling can help you figure out how to make your interactions more positive.
“It’s good to be self-reflective about your tech use. That means noticing the things you’re doing online that make you feel good. That might be the people you’re talking to, content you’re following, or apps you’re using,” says Eisha Buch. She’s a former teacher who creates programs to help teens use digital media safely. “Then lean into those positive feelings. You can also think of habit changes that might help reduce negative feelings.”
Ready to put that advice to the test? Read about four common social media situations that can give you bad vibes, and learn how to turn them around to make sure your phone is a place for good vibes only.