The role of social media in teenagers' lives is still an open question. Is it a blessing for them or is it a curse? It is no secret that they rely entirely on social media to stay in touch with others.

Whether it is about posting pictures on Instagram or messaging friends on Facebook, teens are immersed in the online world of social media. Even their body language and facial expressions can be challenging to interpret.

Social media "has increased the risk of cyberbullying, depression, and social isolation for teens." Sleep deprivation and being unable to cope with distractions at such a young age negatively impact teenagers' mental health. Teens also struggle to self-regulate their screen time, making them more vulnerable to online harm.

Yet, the article revealed some insights into how social media has changed teen lives and how to improve mental health. 

Let's take a look! 

Mental Health And Social Network

Our social nature makes us human beings. And, our mental health and happiness are greatly affected by our relationships with others. Right?

If we connect with like-minded people, it will reduce stress & depression. While, at the same time, offering happiness and comfort. This will also assist in avoiding loneliness. Conversely, a lack of social connections may negatively affect one's mental and emotional health.

This is the reason teenagers turn to different social platforms. From Snapchat to Instagram to Facebook, they consider these platforms to connect with different people. But, social media platforms cannot replace real-life human interaction.

The Gen Z study found that most users spent dozens of hours on social media. 62% of respondents said that the "Hide like" button on Instagram and Facebook relieved their anxiety about posting. More than 20% say they would require an offer of more than $1 million to delete their common social media accounts permanently. 

A whopping 86% admit that social media directly influences their happiness, and 36% of users claim that their social media presence would never have allowed them to date. 

45% and 52% of participants said they used TikTok or YouTube at least once a day. 14% have spent more than 5 hours on YouTube, and 11% have spent more than 5 hours a day on TikTok. According to researchers, social media has the following downsides, especially with regard to mental health. 

Let's better understand this with an example.

Children in Argentina are often victims of cyberbullying, and Argentina is one of the top two countries in Latin America for this crime. A UNESCO report published last year highlighted this issue.

CIPDH published the results of an investigation undertaken as part of the annual "International Day against Violence and Harassment at School", held on the first Thursday of November.

How To Improve Your Mental Health?

Taking care of your mental health doesn't have to be costly or time-consuming. The following tips will help you to maintain your mental health.

  • Socialize with others

Good relationships can help you feel empowered. They give you the chance to share positive experiences. They help you deal with stressful situations and help others. Thus, you should socialize. For example, you could spend time with your family and visit them frequently to build stronger and more meaningful relationships.

  • Present yourself

You may often ask yourself: why me? Or what if? But these questions can distract you from the task at hand and prevent you from fully enjoying your life. The research reveals that an unhappy mind wanders in thought. Rather than worry about what may or may not be happening right now, think about what is happening. No matter your sense of touch, it can help you stay in the moment amid your busy mind.

  • Consume healthy food

When you eat a healthy meal with foods rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, you can improve your mood and enhance your ability to think. Your brain functions best when it gets the fuel it needs. Apart from vegetables, fruits, legumes, grains, lean protein, and healthy fats, you can follow the Mediterranean diet, which is the best way to stay on track.

  • Sleep is essential

A lack of sleep can affect how you feel the following day, making you more irritable and affecting your ability to concentrate. Sleep plays a crucial role in your health. To ensure a good night's sleep, avoid screens before bed, among other things.

Bottom Line

Our physical fitness enables us to stay physically healthy, while our mental fitness helps us to remain mentally healthy. An active mind makes us healthier and happier. Mental health can help prevent or combat the mental illness associated with chronic physical illness. It can also help prevent the recurrence of the illness. Unless you know the signs of mental illness in adults and children, you may not be able to detect if you need professional help. The more you learn, the more you will be able to support someone who has a mental illness.