Please respond to this discussion in a meaningful way
Accessing technology and social media platforms can have a dual impact on people with mental illness and society as a community. Naslund et al. 2020 state that social media has become a crucial part of daily life for many individuals who are dealing with mental illness. These platforms have emerged as a significant source of support and comfort, providing solace to those who need it most. Technological advancements can bring positive and negative effects. On the positive side, technology can offer several benefits: Accessing information about mental health conditions, treatment options, and support resources has been made possible by technology. Individuals who have mental illness can now benefit from online communities, support groups, and other resources that can provide encouragement and understanding. Social media and online forums can help people connect with others with similar experiences, creating a sense of community that reduces feelings of isolation. This community can also offer emotional support, validation, and encouragement to individuals who need it. An exploratory study conducted by Bucci et al. in 2019 revealed that a substantial number of individuals with mental illness tend to use social media as a platform for sharing their individual experiences, gathering information related to their mental health and treatment options, and seeking and providing support to others who are facing similar mental health challenges. Rideout & Fox 2018 conducted a study that showed that young individuals who suffer from moderate to severe depressive symptoms tend to prefer social media as a means of communication over in-person interactions.
Mobile applications aimed at promoting mental health and well-being are becoming increasingly common. These apps offer a range of features, including guided meditation, stress reduction exercises, mood tracking, and cognitive-behavioral therapy tools. They can be a valuable resource for individuals who struggle with mental health challenges, providing accessible and convenient support. Technology has enabled access to mental health services remotely, including counseling and therapy sessions through video conferencing or messaging platforms. This can be especially helpful for people who face barriers to traditional in-person therapy, such as limited mobility or geographical distance. Batterham & Calear’s 2017 research focused on the potential benefits of social media for individuals with mental illness. One of the key findings was that some people may find it more comfortable to seek help for mental health concerns through online channels rather than in-person interactions. Another study conducted by Rideout et al. 2018 revealed that young individuals who suffer from moderate to severe depressive symptoms tend to prefer social media to communicate over in-person interactions.
Excessive use of technology and social media can have detrimental effects on people struggling with mental illness. Being constantly exposed to the perfect lives of others on social media can cause feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem. Additionally, the adverse interactions that can occur online, such as cyberbullying and trolling, can further exacerbate these feelings and negatively impact a person’s mental health. This can lead to increased levels of stress, anxiety, and depression, especially in children who are more vulnerable to the adverse effects of social media. It is essential to be mindful of technology and social media’s impact on our mental well-being and to take steps to mitigate these effects. Stiglic & Viner conducted research in 2019, which found that prolonged screen time can result in different health problems for children and young individuals. The evidence is most compelling for conditions such as obesity, unhealthy eating habits, symptoms of depression, and quality of life.
The internet is everywhere, and it is easy to find information online. But sometimes, this can be too much, and we consume too much digital content. This can cause an individual to feel distracted, mentally drained, and overburdened. As more people use technology and social media, concerns about privacy and security are on the rise. Individuals may feel exposed when sharing personal information online, especially regarding their mental health, due to fear of being stigmatized, discriminated against, or having their data accessed without permission. Too much time spent on technology and social media can come at the expense of real-life social interactions, hobbies, and self-care activities, leading to isolation, loneliness, and decreased well-being.
