So much of our time is spent connected to others. If we aren’t physically surrounded by people, we are on our phones and most often using social media. Social media, some say, contributes to many people’s feelings of unhappiness and anxiety. Of course, not everything about social media is bad. There are some benefits to staying connected online. However, too much time spent connected to others via social media can lead to unhappiness and anxiety, especially for those in recovery. Continue reading to learn more.
Constant Connection
These days, we are connected to others in so many ways. For some of us, social media has kept us bound to our phones for hours at a time. People worry about missing out on something, so they find themselves scrolling and scrolling. What if, however, all this scrolling contributed to some of those feelings of unhappiness and anxiety that you are feeling? Just think about it—because we are constantly near our phones, we are bombarded with updates and messages. From news apps to text messages to social media, we are constantly getting endless notifications. This constant connection can become overwhelming. When you are always bombarded with these notifications, you don’t have time to step away. So, you find yourself scrolling through social media. One big thing that gets to a lot of people is comparison. You see a friend with a big smile and a witty caption and assume they are having the time of their life. Little do you know, however, that the smile was fake and the caption untrue. But you don’t know any better. You are comparing your worst day to the best that someone could come up with for social media. Comparison can kill your happiness, giving you something to worry about because you are missing out on the fun that others are a part of. Because you are constantly connected, your hobbies can begin to fade away, as does true, face-to-face connection. We spend so much of our time staring at our phones that we forget the wonderful real life that is right in front of us.
Limiting Your Social Media Intake
If you want to help control your emotions better, it might be time to close the social media apps and put down your phone. This can be especially helpful in the morning when you wake up and before you go to bed at night. Instead of using your phone during these times, try to relax by meditating or practicing a hobby that you give your full attention to. During the day, try to limit your social media time. Give yourself a few minutes of scrolling, then put down your phone and get to work. You’ll be surprised how much you can check off your to-do list when you aren’t constantly connected!
The Arbor Behavioral Healthcare is here to help you multiply your happiness in your recovery. If you are struggling, call us now at (844) 413-2690. We can’t wait to speak with you and get you started in one of our programs today!