Social media has and will always be a huge part of our lives. It is made out to be one of the main sources of entertainment in our generations and the newer generations. Because of this, we tend to always rely on social media, which can negatively influence teens and can be highly addictive. It has been proven that social media has an effect on their sleep, peer pressure and unrealistic expectations on our own lives but also about the lives around us, which then again increases the risks for mental health issues. Like any other addiction, social media addiction can lead to negative consequences such as neglecting responsibilities, decreased productivity, and even impaired mental health. Social media platforms are designed to provide instant gratification. Whenever we post something, we get immediate feedback in the form of likes, comments, and shares. This instant feedback can trigger the reward center in our brain, which makes us want to keep coming back for more. Social media can also trigger the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter that is associated with pleasure and reward. Every time we get a like or a positive comment, our brain releases dopamine, which can create a positive feedback loop and make us want to keep using social media. Social media is incredibly accessible, which means that it’s always within reach. People can access social media on their phones, tablets, and computers, which means that they can use it anywhere, anytime. This accessibility can make it difficult for people to disconnect and take a break from social media. Overall, social media addiction can be a complex issue that is influenced by a variety of factors, including individual personality traits, social norms, and the design of social media platforms themselves.

 According to the Mayo Clinic Health Systems, they state that high levels of social media use links to depression and anxiety symptoms and to cope with that, teens usually, almost always end up relying on social media once again which is just an ongoing cycle that needs to be broken. However, it’s important to note that not all young people are addicted to social media and that social media use can also have positive effects, such as facilitating social connections and providing access to information and resources. Additionally, factors such as age, gender, culture, and individual personality traits can all influence the relationship between young people and social media.

Social media addiction can have negative impacts on mental health, productivity, and relationships. According to the Medical Device News Magazine, Some solutions can consist of deleting social media apps. If you find that you can’t control your social media use, consider deleting the apps from your phone. This will make it more difficult to access social media and help you break the habit. Find alternative activities. Engage in activities that don’t involve social media, such as exercising, reading, or spending time with friends and family.

Social media has become an integral part of our lives, but it is important to limit its use to avoid negative consequences. The constant use of social media can lead to addiction, distraction, and decreased productivity. It can also have adverse effects on mental health, such as increased anxiety and depression. Additionally, social media can promote comparison and competition, leading to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem. Therefore, it is essential to set boundaries and limit social media use to avoid these negative consequences and maintain a healthy balance in our daily lives.