The Big Story
Log out or lean in? How to balance social media and your mental health
Mar 26, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Amori Mikami, a psychology professor at UBC and lead author of a study on social media's effects, dives into the complex relationship between social media and mental health. They explore how abstaining from social media can decrease anxiety and depression among young adults. Mikami also shares strategies for navigating online interactions and emphasizes the importance of self-awareness. With a focus on intentional use, this conversation sheds light on how to harness social media positively while safeguarding mental well-being.
16:24
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Quick takeaways
- Research highlights that selective engagement with social media can improve mental well-being while minimizing negative impacts on users.
- Participants who abstained from social media experienced significant reductions in feelings of depression, anxiety, and stress, reinforcing the value of intentional disengagement.
Deep dives
Balancing Social Media Use
Research indicates that complete abstention from social media may not be a realistic or effective solution for many individuals who experience negative mental health effects. Instead, the study aims to find constructive ways for users to engage with social media while minimizing its detrimental impacts. The researchers enrolled emerging adults with varying degrees of mental health challenges, exploring whether selective engagement could lead to improved emotional well-being. Their findings suggest that reducing social media use does help, but actively moderating how and with whom individuals engage online is equally essential.
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