Can Too Much Social Media Cause Depression?

Source: Can Too Much Social Media Cause Depression? | World of Psychology

Social media is something most of us can no longer avoid unless we intentionally opt for a ‘detox’ now and then. When I’ve decided to take a break, something always draws me back. How about you?

Back last year a school friend posted a photograph on Facebook from 35 years ago and for a period of time I reconnected with many of the people in that junior school photograph from yesteryear. It was really lovely to see familiar faces and see how life had turned out. Having moved away from my childhood town in my late teens I was momentarily drawn back and started to wondering what it might have been like to still be a part of the community. Here were photographs of smiling faces whose friendships had been bonded over many years.

As a therapist, I was curious where my memories took me. I started longing for something I never had, it was as if there was a silent loss. There were great memories of growing up and some not so great. As I pondered the years in between I shared my experience with some friends who had, had similar experiences through social media.

It makes sense to me that too much social media could impact our sense of mood. What are your thoughts and experiences?