Social media algorithms have long been criticised and there is increasing evidence which confirms the detriment they can have on mental health. There are around 3.8 billion social media users worldwide, with each person averaging well over 2 hours of social media use per day. In those hours spent online, we’re beginning to see the harmful mental health impact including loneliness, anxiety, social comparison and depression. In order to get my message of mental health out there, I also have to spend time on social media, and I am seeing and experiencing these effects.

Social media is 'addictive'

Rewarding users with stimuli such as likes, notifications and comments, keeps users engaged with content. When a user’s photo receives a “like,” the same dopamine pathways involved in motivation, reward, and addiction are activated. But what keeps us hooked on social media isn’t just the pleasure rush of the like it’s the intermittent absence of the like that also keeps us engaged.

Algorithms are designed to control

Social media algorithms are designed to keep users engaged for long periods of time, providing users with personalised content tailored to their interests. Studies show this mindless scrolling can harm people’s mental health. 

Researchers have found that excessive social media use can lead to feelings of social isolation, low self-esteem and increased levels of stress and anxiety. This is because social media platforms often promote unrealistic standards of beauty and success, leading to negative social comparisons and feelings of inadequacy.

A constant stream of information

Additionally, the constant stream of information and updates on social media can be overwhelming, leading to information overload and difficulty in focusing on important tasks. This constant state of distraction also contributes to feelings of anxiety, leading to disconnection.

Algorithms prioritise content that generates high levels of engagement

Furthermore, social media algorithms are designed to prioritise content that generates high levels of engagement, such as controversial, or emotionally charged content. This can lead to polarising opinions, the spread of misinformation, and an increase in online harassment and bullying.

Negativity spreads

Another common quality of popular content is negativity. The reality of course, is that negative content keeps people on social media platforms for longer. A recent study tracking people’s eye movements as they read social media posts found that people tend to spend more time reading negative comments, rather than positive ones and another study of Twitter 'X', discovered that negative news spreads more broadly than positive news.

Social media companies are aware of the problems

Social media companies are well-aware of the algorithms and the detrimental impact they have on mental health. A Meta whistle-blower leaked documents revealing Facebook knew its products had a harmful effect on body issues among teenagers. A TikTok whistle-blower has also revealed the careful manipulation of the platform’s algorithm, maintaining engagement by prioritising emotionally triggering content to users. The user needs to be mindful.

The best way you can protect your mental health against algorithms that seem to be designed to harm, is to be mindful of the content you look at and how it makes you feel and try to limit your exposure to it. Ultimately, social media companies should be responsible for protecting their users from unnecessary harm and being transparent about their algorithms and how they work, telling users why exactly certain content has been shared with them.

Conclusion:

On the other hand, social media has been beneficial during the Covid-19 pandemic, allowing people to share experiences with family and friends, combat isolation and provide a sense of togetherness. On the other hand, excessive use of social media can be detrimental, leading to negative impacts on mental health such as anxiety and depression. It is important for individuals to find a balance and practice moderation when using social media to avoid potential harm.

While social media does have some benefits of connecting people and sharing information, it also has a dark side when it comes to mental health. As a mental health advocate and someone who uses social media to get the mental health message across, I am unhappy at the impact social media is having on mental health.

Social media has become an important part of our lives, but it is the very thing that is connecting us, that is making our mental health worse. As a result, we're failing to be proactive, to take control, to deal with mental health. (Sources: haistanfordedunews namecheapcom)