Addiction is real: the influence of social networks on self-image and mental health

Currently, we find ourselves in a digital era, where the Internet, smartphones, video games and social networks permeate our daily lives. The last few decades have been marked by the rapid development and improvement of communication and information technologies, meaning that we can have access to all types of information at the click of a button.

It is clear that social networks and online platforms play a central role in human interactions. However, this scenario presents significant challenges, especially with regard to young people’s self-image and mental health. The smartphone is one of the most used tools to access Internet platforms, and it presents benefits in its use, as it is very practical and can be used anywhere.

It is important to highlight that everything that is excessive and uncontrolled can bring harm to the subject’s psychological and physical well-being, with the use of a smartphone being no exception, thus developing addiction to the smartphone, which is defined as excessive and compulsive use of the smartphone that impairs the subject’s normal functioning.

Activities frequently carried out on smartphones include quick searches, online shopping, online games and participation in social networks, with the use of social networks maintaining the growth trend, presenting 80.2 percent of use in 2019, which means that we are compared to 2011 (INE, 2019). Currently, the most popular social networks are Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, both characterized by the sharing of photographs and videos of oneself or other individuals, with these sharing being a direct form of online self-presentation, which allows the user the opportunity to integrate with the world quickly.

The rapid adoption of social networks gave rise to the need to understand the impacts that excessive use of it would have on individuals’ health. That said, it is common to see images in the media of models with ideally “perfect” bodies, which teenagers and young adults tend to use as role models. Numerous physical comparisons are made through social networks that may or may not motivate the subject to improve their physical condition.

However, when exposure to social media is exaggerated, this can result in dissatisfaction with body image and reduced self-esteem, and this can lead to negative consequences for physical and psychological health, including eating disorders and social isolation.

Therefore, technological development in recent years has led to individuals increasingly exhibiting excessive and uncontrolled use of the means used to enjoy Internet platforms, as well as digital platforms themselves, causing teenagers and young people to adults try to appear to be what they are not, but what they idealize to be.

Nowadays, we find a society increasingly demanding in relation to what is aesthetically acceptable, facing a pursuit of an ideal body image, where individuals subject themselves to diets, exaggerated physical exercise, medication and photo manipulations to achieve achieve or simulate achieving an idealized and acceptable aesthetic standard.

At the same time, accessibility to tools that are used to manipulate body image has had negative consequences on the self-esteem of individuals, mainly in female adolescents, as through social networks young people receive positive reinforcement through their publications. and manipulated before being shared (engagement, likes and positive comments), providing a pleasant sensation that may be inaccurate and unreal because when confronted with reality, young people realize the discrepancy between the real image and the modified image, created for social media, thus presenting low self-esteem and consequently isolating themselves from the real world.

However, it is important to reflect on the consequences of this behavior. Obsession with image and online acceptance can lead to alienation from the real world and disconnection from reality and can develop negative feelings towards oneself, perpetuating a vicious cycle of dissatisfaction and seeking external validation. As a society, we must promote a culture of acceptance and authenticity, where each individual can feel valued and accepted regardless of their appearance or online popularity. It’s time to redefine the concept of success and happiness, valuing the diversity and individuality of each person.

For today’s young people, it is essential to remember that true happiness does not lie in aesthetic perfection or popularity on social media, but in the acceptance of themselves and the meaningful relationships they cultivate offline. We must learn to disconnect occasionally, to embrace imperfection and to value what really matters in life: love, friendship, and emotional well-being.

In a world dominated by technology, it is important to remember that we are more than our online profiles and that our true essence lies in our authenticity. It’s time to rethink our relationship with technology and social networks, prioritizing our emotional well-being and our connection with the real world. Change starts within each of us, and together we can create a more balanced and kinder world for everyone.

To make an appointment at the Mentes INquietas clinic, you must call 265 233 066 or 927 401 218. Alternatively, send an email to geral@nullmentesinquietas.pt.