The Do’s and Dont’s of Navigating Social Media While Having Anxiety

Anxiety comes in many different forms and presents itself differently for every person affected. According to the ADAA, anxiety disorders are the most common illness in the US and affects over 40 million adults over the age of 18. With the rise of social media over the last decade and mental health transparency also growing, here are some do’s and don’ts to consider when it comes to navigating social media while having anxiety. 

 

Too Much Time on Social Media Causes More Anxiety

Social media has become a haven for people to share the ins and outs and very small details of their lives over the past few years. It has almost gotten to the point where you are considered an anomaly if you don’t post all the intimate details of your personal life online. 

With oversharing becoming the norm, it has also attributed to a rise in anxiety and depression, specifically among young people who are trapped inside their phones. Constantly scrolling your timeline and analyzing other people’s lives can actually add to your anxiety. If you’re experiencing high anxiety at the time, it could be helpful to disconnect and take a break from social media. 

 

Try to avoid impulse posting when you’re upset or having a panic attack

Anyone who suffers from a mental illness can attest that social media is either an addiction, a trigger, or completely unhealthy for them altogether. With such high levels of stimulation at all times, it can sometimes be hard to decipher reality from illusion. We often make the mistake of bringing our problems to social media before we can work them out with the people in our lives. 

In my own personal experience, anytime I have posted on social media while being upset or impulsive I have regretted it later that day or the next day. I would usually go back and delete the post and feel embarrassed about it later. Posting this way can also cause your anxiety to rise. It could be good to have a journal or notes app where you can vent your frustrations as a filter before you post to social media. 

 

Use your platform to help others and share information

While social media can be negative to someone with a mental disorder like anxiety, it can also be a therapeutic outlet as well. Some people use blogging, twitter, posting creative photos, creating Youtube videos, etc. as a way to cope with their anxiety. It can also be helpful to create a resource for other people who may be struggling as a way to inspire them as well. There are several mental health resources that I enjoy following that provide useful, informative, and humorous posts that I can relate to. Here are a few that I enjoy – The Awkward Mind, Real Depression Project, and The Mighty.

Social media can be an incredible place, but can also be destructive if not used correctly. Please protect your energy as best as you can and not take it too seriously. Unplug if you have to and don’t be afraid to block people who are toxic. These techniques have helped me tremendously and I hope they can help you navigate as well.