The Effects of Social Media on Adolescent Mental Health: A Double-Edged Sword

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Today’s teenagers cannot imagine life without social media. It is where they talk to friends, share pictures, learn new things, and keep up with trends. Social media is like a giant online playground, but it is not always safe or healthy.

When it comes to the positive side , adolescents stay connected through the help of social media.

For example, a teenager who feels lonely at school might find an online group that shares their interests, like drawing or gaming.

Self esteem can be boosted and feeling of isolation reduced when kids experience this sense of belonging.

​ During the pandemic, social media was a lifeline for many teens who could not see their friends in person.

My younger cousins was a perfect example. She was staying with us then and used video calls, chats, and social feeds to stay close with her friends even when they are apart.

Also with social media,teens have an easy access to information.

​ Teens learn about world events, science, and health tips at their fingertips. This can make them more aware and informed than previous generations.

But the negative side is worrying. Many adolescents compare themselves to what they see online. Perfect selfies, fancy vacations, and designer clothes can make them feel poor, ugly, or boring.

This unhealthy comparison can lead to anxiety and depression.

​ For example, a girl might think she is not pretty enough because she doesn’t look like the filtered influencers she follows. Or a boy might feel left out seeing his friends at a party he was not invited to.

Cyberbullying is another danger. Unlike traditional bullying, it can follow teens everywhere through their phones. A single embarrassing photo or cruel comment can spread quickly, leaving lasting scars on their mental health.

Looking to the future, I think today’s adolescents will be more informed and connected. They will have knowledge at their fingertips and can learn faster than ever before. But there is also a risk that their personal efforts will weaken if they rely too much on social media for answers without thinking critically.

In other for their mental health to be protected, Adolescents need guidance. They must be taught how to make use of social media in a healthy way by their parents, teachers,and society.

To avoid fake and unhealthy comparison,they should be be taught how to spot and avoiding fake news ,and how to balance their real life with online life.

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If this can be achieved, social media can become a healthy tool instead of a trap.

​ The choice is ours to help them make.