Digital Addiction Crisis: Social Media’s Toll on Mental Health

Digital Addiction,Social Media

Digital Addiction Crisis: Social Media’s Toll on Mental Health

In today’s digitally connected world, social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram have become integral parts of our daily lives. However, experts warn that excessive use of these platforms may signal a more serious problem—digital addiction. As this disorder gains recognition in the medical community, its impact on mental health is becoming increasingly apparent.

The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health

Digital addiction is now recognized as a disorder by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). The overuse of the internet and social media has significantly impacted society, according to experts. Marina, a licensed professional counselor at Detroit Health Behavioral Hospital, explains, “Spending too much time on social media sites and playing video games can affect everyone’s wellbeing, especially children and teens.”

Signs of Digital Addiction in Children and Teens

The excessive use of digital technology is particularly concerning for young people. Marina highlights the signs parents should watch for: “When it becomes a point where they’re not wanting to go to sleep during their bedtime, not wanting to go to school the next day because they stayed up playing video games all night, or not wanting to take a shower or join in family dinner because they’re so consumed with using their iPad or phone, that’s when it’s becoming concerning.”

Children are also at risk of encountering inappropriate content online. Ybarra, another expert, points out, “Unfortunately, there are going to be some sites that maybe don’t give the best advice when it comes to dealing with mental health. We want to make sure that the child, if they’re having issues with mental health, is getting their resources from reputable sources.”

Effects on Adults

Digital addiction isn’t just a problem for the younger generation. Licensed counselor Ed Salamone has observed negative effects in adults, particularly those aged 40 and up. “It also causes a feeling of emptiness because we become socially isolated. We distance ourselves from the people around us, which impacts our mood. We also don’t look like the social media models. We don’t look, we don’t have, we don’t eat like them.”

Strategies for Healthier Digital Habits

To combat the negative effects of excessive screen time, experts recommend parents set limits on their children’s digital use and encourage participation in family or school activities. These measures can help promote a healthier balance between online and offline life.

Looking Ahead

As society grapples with the implications of digital addiction, understanding and addressing its effects on mental health is crucial. Tomorrow, we will explore how a local police department is working to combat cyber crimes, providing further insights into the challenges and solutions in our increasingly digital world.

Resources:

• National Institute of Mental Health
• American Psychological Association
• Detroit Health Behavioral Hospital