Since it’s a relatively new technology, there’s little research to establish the long-term consequences, good or bad, of social media use. However, multiple studies have found a strong link between heavy social media and an increased risk for depression, anxiety, loneliness, <a href="https://www.helpguide.org/articles/anxiety/cutting-and-self-harm.htm">self-harm </a>, and even <a href="https://www.helpguide.org/articles/suicide-prevention/are-you-feeling-suicidal.htm">suicidal thoughts </a>.

The negative aspects of social media

Sharing endless selfies and all your innermost thoughts on social media can create an unhealthy self-centeredness and distance you from real-life connections.

Self-absorption

About 10 percent of teens report <a href="https://www.helpguide.org/articles/abuse/bullying-and-cyberbullying.htm">being bullied </a>on social media and many other users are subjected to offensive comments. Social media platforms such as Twitter can be hotspots for spreading hurtful rumors, lies, and abuse that can leave lasting emotional scars.

Cyberbullying

Human beings need face-to-face contact to be mentally healthy. Nothing reduces stress and boosts your mood faster or more effectively than eye-to-eye contact with someone who cares about you. The more you prioritize social media interaction over in-person relationships, the more you’re at risk for developing or exacerbating mood disorders such as anxiety and <a href="https://www.helpguide.org/articles/depression/depression-symptoms-and-warning-signs.htm">depression </a>.

Depression and anxiety

Even if you know that images you’re viewing on social media are manipulated, they can still make you feel insecure about how you look or what’s going on in your own life. Similarly, we’re all aware that other people tend to share just the highlights of their lives, rarely the low points that everyone experiences.

Inadequacy about your life or appearance .

While FOMO has been around far longer than social media, sites such as Facebook and Instagram seem to exacerbate feelings that others are having more fun or living better lives than you are. FOMO can compel you to pick up your phone every few minutes to check for updates, or compulsively respond to each and every alert—even if that means taking risks while you’re driving, missing out on sleep at night, or prioritizing social media interaction over real world relationships.

Fear of missing out (FOMO)

.A study at the University of Pennsylvania found that high usage of Facebook, Snapchat, and Instagram increases rather decreases <a href="https://www.helpguide.org/articles/relationships-communication/dealing-with-loneliness-and-shyness.htm">feelings of loneliness </a>. Conversely, the study found that reducing social media usage can actually make you feel less lonely and isolated and improve your overall wellbeing.

Isolation

Excessive use of social media can fuel anxiety, depression, FOMO and other mental health issues. Here’s how to change your habits for the better. 