Let's Talk About the Perils of Social Media

The irony of posting this article on social media is not lost on me. More than half the world now uses some form of social media, but many of us may not realize just how big an influence these companies have over us.

A recent news article revealed that more than 150 families are suing social media giants for the negative influence they’re having on children.

Alexis was 12 when she developed an eating disorder due to the content she saw on Instagram.?

Englyn was 14 when she committed suicide, inspired by a video she saw on Instagram.

With no real age verifications, algorithms that promote harmful content, and an intentionally addictive design, how do we protect children– and ourselves– from the harm that social media can do?

To start, set time limits. As an adult, hold yourself accountable to a certain amount of social media usage a day. As a parent, don’t be afraid to take your child’s phone at night and put it in a place it can’t be accessed once you’re asleep.

Be mindful of the content being accessed on social media AND how it makes you feel. Someone doesn’t have to be a bad person to diminish your self-worth through social media. If an account constantly makes you feel like you’re not good enough, it’s time to unfollow.?

Take a hiatus. You don’t have to delete your accounts, but sometimes you do need a mental break. Give yourself a week or month away from social media. Remove the app that you find most addictive. I promise, life doesn’t have to be completely documented online to be well lived.

Have you experienced any negativity because of social media? Tell us how you worked through it in the comments!