The Negative Effects of Social Media

Although the new year has brought about a fresh start, teenagers across Irvine continue to struggle with the negative effects of social media. 

Whether it be causing teens to obsess over follower counts or compare themselves to unrealistic body standards, the negative effects of social media are starker than ever. This is an expected by-product of COVID-19, which gives youngsters more time in isolation with nothing to do, but browse the web and immerse themselves into the experiences of others.

“Some days are better than others,” Northwood High School junior Ria Achuthan said. “It’s difficult to cope when you're at home bored with nothing else to keep you company, but social media, and the unattainable standards it sets for you.”

And the effects of social media don’t just end there. Dozens of teenagers are finding themselves addicted to their electronics, unable to place them down to connect with their families in a healthy way or be productive. The Review of Ophthalmology magazine reports people ages 16 to 19, spend an average of five to seven hours a day on their phone. And the scariest part, is that they don’t even realize it. 

“Seconds, minutes, and sometimes hours can go by without you even noticing,” Northwood sophomore Nihar Abhyankar said. “It’s insane that we can spend the day unproductively without even realizing it until we look up from our phones.”

The effects of internet usage are extremely harmful to young adults in particular. High screen time can result in a multitude of health conditions, including, but not limited to, severe mental health issues such as depression or anxiety, sleep issues, and chronic neck and back pain. Experts suggest that spending our days in from of screens can affect mental and emotional wellbeing, even increasing in suicidal behaviors and lowering one’s ability to read emotions of others. 

False expectations of ourselves and feelings of isolation are difficult to overcome, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t hope. Going out for fresh air and some sunlight (with masks on) is the best way teenagers can treat themselves to a sort of escape that even social media can’t promise.