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Social Media Can Create Unneeded Stress During The Holidays
The holiday season is upon us, and with it comes the inevitable stress and anxiety that can come with trying to meet expectations, make ends meet, and find joy in the chaos. However, social media platforms may be exacerbating this stress, as they often present an unrealistic and curated version of others’ lives.
Dr. Chelsea Hansen, a doctoral lecturer in psychology at the City University of New York School of Professional Studies, warned that social media can be a source of not only connection but also stress and painful social comparison. This sentiment was echoed by Dr. Eugene Lucas, an associate professor and coordinator of the distance education Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program at Wilkes University.
The experts emphasize the importance of setting boundaries and being mindful of one’s online activities during this time of year. Hansen suggested having specific time blocks for social media use to avoid mindless scrolling and reduce stress. Additionally, users may benefit from unfollowing or muting accounts that bring negative emotions, which can be done without removing connections altogether.
Furthermore, Lucas recommended notifying friends and family members about a desire to reduce or avoid social media exposure during the holidays in order to increase feelings of togetherness and self-worth stemming from in-person gatherings. He also encouraged the idea of setting technology-free times or places during holiday gatherings.
As we navigate these conversations with our online communities, it is crucial to recognize that there is no one-size-fits-all solution for managing social media’s potential negative impact on mental health during this time of year. What works best may vary from person to person, and it’s essential to prioritize self-care and digital wellness.
In a world where social media has become an integral part of our daily lives, setting boundaries and being aware of its influence is crucial.
Source: http://www.forbes.com
