Social networks have become our everyday life, something we cannot do without. Immediately after waking up, many people check what's new online and in the world, who posted what, some go to check new posts several times during the day and how far the obsession with them goes, the data shows that many enter social networks even while watching a movie, during eating, on the toilet, no yes, no.
Some people don't even realize that they spend most of their time online. But how could we get rid of it? How can you say goodbye to this addiction?
Here are three ways to protect yourself from the toxic effects of social media!
1. You feel insecure
Social media is full of people showing their amazing stories. They process photos with filters, share only the most beautiful and positive, but also fake moments of their lives. This eventually led many to compare themselves to others, envy them, or feel insecure. The line between real and unreal is increasingly blurred.
Social media is not your life. Photo: Gabrielle Henderson/UnsplashThe solution
Remember that not all people on social media are who they really are. Instead, look around you and think about what you can admire in real life. What do you like about your best friend, sister, colleague, loved one…? Focus on the qualities you love about yourself and others.
2. Obsessive fear of missing something important and interesting
Fear of missing out can be used in both virtual and real contexts and is described as a feeling of anxiety or uncertainty about the possibility of missing something.
The solution
The real question is, what are you afraid of missing out on? If you've ever been in a meeting where everyone is looking at their phones, then you know that the answer to this question is that you have nothing to miss. Focus on your feelings and experiences, on the people you are with, and don't let imposed patterns of behavior control you. This doesn't mean you have to close all apps, but filter the content you follow.
You prefer to watch your own world! Photo: Glen Carrie/Unsplash3. You experience anxiety and depression
Social networks are designed to affect your brain, i.e. the production of dopamine. The brain releases dopamine when we experience pleasant emotions, including positive social interactions. Thus, users search for "dopamine doping" on social networks. And if that's not enough, people develop anxiety states, up to depression, and this especially happens in children and adolescents.
The solution
So the best way to avoid the negative influence of social networks is to not access them. And this is not always possible, because if you need social networks for work, education or want to stay up to date with events, you cannot ignore them. If you are overwhelmed with feelings of discomfort and anxiety, analyze what content causes you anxiety and avoid it, as well as the people who post such content. Try to be more present in reality!
