Social media have changed our lives and have long since become an integral part of our everyday life. They offer the opportunity to stay in touch with friends and family, to find out more about current topics and even to start careers. But the ever greater use of Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok and Co. also has a risk: depression.
A current study by researchers from the areas of politics and education published in the Journal of Affective Disorders Reports shows that young adults who often use social media are more likely to develop depression within six months. It is worrying that this happens independently of the personality type.
Previous studies have already brought numerous factors in connection with the development of depression, but there was a lack of research that focused on the interaction of personality traits, social media and depression. The current study closes this gap and determines strong and linear associations of depression across all personality traits.
Dispute is depressed
The results of the study are alarming: people with a high neurotic character who use social media more than 300 minutes a day have a risk of developing depression than people with a low neurotic character. In addition, the study showed that people with a high level of approval 49 percent rarely develop depression than people with low approval.
The use of social media is strongly associated with the development of depression at every personality trait. The authors of the study suspect that problematic social comparisons can increase negative feelings and thus explain why and how the risk of depression increases with increasing use of social media. The preoccupation with mainly negative content can also increase feelings. In addition, the increased use of social media reduces the possibilities for personal interactions and activities outside of your own four walls.
Restrict use
The study results should all make us think. We should be aware that our behavior in social media can have an impact on our mental health. Therefore, we should consider whether we should limit our use or avoid certain content in order to promote our well -being. We should remember that life not only consists of virtual interactions and that we should also spend our time with activities outside of social media.
Is social media the cause or effect in depression?
Social media can cause depression in adults, as another study published in the medical journal Jama Network Open. The researchers surveyed 5,395 adults aged 56 and found that people who use Facebook, Tiktok and Snapchat are more often affected by depression than people who do not use social media. However, the study cannot prove that consumption of social media causes depression. It is quite possible that people who are already depressed use more social media.
It is important to handle the time that we spend on social media. The platforms are designed to keep us as long as possible. Those who are aware of how much time they spend on social media can prevent depression and lead a healthier life.
