HOW MUCH IS TOO MUCH? - Mindless Scrolling.

HOW MUCH IS TOO MUCH?

Mindless scrolling.

Studies, such as “Online Social Networking and Mental Health,” suggest that prolonged use of social networking sites (SNS) may be related to signs and symptoms of depression, low self-esteem, and anxiety. This study also addresses previous research that suggests there are positive impacts on self-esteem and social networking. While the way we interact online may impact each individual differently, how we choose to use social media, how frequently we use it, and what we choose to engage with can influence our mental health and wellbeing.

It is up to you to realize when the constant onslaught of media is adversely affecting your wellbeing and when it starts to take a toll on other things in your life. You may stop and ask yourself next time you are scrolling through the media:

How is this making me feel?

How is this affecting my day?

Are my activities reflecting my goals?

Is this impacting my relationships?

Am I comparing myself to others?

Is what I am looking at adding to my happiness?

Have I surpassed my mental capacity for bad news?

It is essential to check up on ourselves at various times throughout the day to see how we are doing. Sometimes, giving yourself objective ways to check your progress and wellbeing is by asking:

Was I able to get out of bed today?

Did I manage to accomplish what I intended on getting done?

Did I make time for self-care?

Was I able to do something I enjoyed today?

Did I have a meaningful interaction/connection with someone today?

If we answer “no” more often than not, the time we spend on SNS is negatively impacting these things and it might be a sign to make some changes. If you feel exhausted and burnt out, you may want to consider cutting back and creating boundaries or limits to social media use. You can do this by setting a timer for 5-15 minutes when you want to check updates. This way, you can stay informed and let go before you start feeling overwhelmed.