Social media and mental health - A two-edged sword

If this is the case, you are certainly not alone. Social media has the incredible ability to bring people together, but it can also produce a whirlwind of emotions, influencing our mental health in ways we are unaware of.

Today, we'll look at the highs and lows of social media, including some fascinating stories from 2022 celebrity social media cases in Nigeria and the United Kingdom, as well as suggestions on how to stay sane in the digital age. 

Social media offers opportunities for connection and community.

Let us begin with the positive features. Visualise this: You appreciate the songs of Nigerian artist Tiwa Savage. One day, you scroll through your Instagram feed and come across a touching post from her, in which she shares a personal story, potentially even a challenge she has overcome.

You don't feel alone anymore. This is the beauty of social media. Tiwa Savage uses her position to connect with fans on a deeper level, creating a supportive community that feels like a second family. 

Remember Ricky Gervais's memorable posts about animal rights and mental health? Ricky used his Twitter and Facebook sites to raise awareness of vital issues and educate his millions of followers. It's amazing how a single tweet or post can spark a movement, raise awareness, and drive change.

And then there's Broda Shaggi, a Nigerian comedian and actress who rocketed to fame on Instagram.

He did more than just entertain his followers by posting hilarious and topical sketches; he also established his brand, paving the way for international visibility and several career opportunities.

If you play your cards right, social media might be a goldmine for career development.

The Negative Effects of Social Media

However, it is not all sunshine and rainbows. Because of the anonymity of social media, people may exhibit their worst characteristics. Consider Katie Price as an example. This British reality TV celebrity has openly admitted to the relentless internet harassment her disabled child receives.

It's awful, and it demonstrates the catastrophic emotional impact that cyberbullying can have. For many people, the internet can be like a battleground.

Then there's the issue of comparison. Tonto Dikeh, a Nigerian actress, spoke candidly about how social media expectations harmed her mental health.

When we constantly see other people's highlight reels—perfect vacations, flawless selfies—it's easy to feel inadequate. This unfavourable self-comparison might seriously harm our self-esteem.

Don't forget that social media is addictive. Adele, a British performer, has discussed taking breaks from social media to care for her health.

It's all too easy to become engrossed in the vortex of endless scrolling, diverting our focus away from real-life relationships and responsibilities.

So, how do we prevent being cut while navigating this double-edged sword? Here are some tips to help you stay balanced.

Curate your feed. Follow the accounts that will inspire and motivate you. Unfollow anyone who makes you feel pressured or unhappy. A pleasant online experience can make a major difference.

Take breaks: To recharge, take regular breaks from social media. Even quick digital detoxes can help reset your mindset and reduce dependency.

Walking a tightrope is analogous to navigating social media; both involve balance and mindfulness. Celebrities such Tiwa Savage, Ricky Gervais, Broda Shaggi, Katie Price, Tonto Dikeh, and Adele have given us valuable lessons about how to use social media efficiently. Remember that it's all about being mindful, setting boundaries, and prioritising your mental health.

So, the next time you find yourself caught up in the world of social media, take a step back, breathe, and remember that balance is everything. How do you manage your social media usage?

Have you any advice or tales to share? Leave a comment below; I would love to hear from you!