How the Internet affects your mental health
These days, it seems like we live our lives on the Internet, but can excessive Internet and social media use impact your mental health? While it's a helpful tool for education, work, social interaction and entertainment, overuse can take a toll on your health, says Saju Mathew, M.D., a Piedmont primary care physician.
Internet use and anxiety
Whether it's from reading too much negative news or researching your symptoms online – something Dr. Mathew says he sees frequently among his patients – too much computer time can increase your anxiety.
"Generally, it's not a good idea to research your health symptoms online because the final outcome is a lot of unnecessary anxiety and worry. My overall advice is not to research your symptoms, but to see a doctor first," he says.
Social media and your social life
"Some social media use can be a good thing because it helps us keep up with family and friends, but we need to be careful about how it affects our psyche," he says.
Studies have shown excessive social media use can lead to feelings of depression and dependency in some people.
"When we get on social media, we are looking for affirmation, and consciously or not, we are comparing our life to the lives of others," he says. "As a result, we may not enjoy what's in the moment."
Rather than get wrapped up in comparison, try this: Each day, write down five things for which you are grateful. Focusing on the good in your life helps you combat feelings of low self-esteem and envy.
Technology and your sleep
Excessive smartphone, computer and tablet use can disrupt your sleep. Bright lights from these devices block melatonin secretion, the hormone that regulates sleep.
"I recommend to my patients that they set a bedtime, cut off their phones and stop using social media for the night," he says.
Problematic Internet use
If you feel the need to constantly check your social media accounts for updates or respond to emails right away (even in the middle of the night), you may be experiencing what some experts call "problematic Internet use." If you feel like Internet use has taken over your life, talk to your physician. He or she can help.
Drawing boundaries for social media use
"At the end of the day, there has to be a line we draw when it comes to accessing social media," says Dr. Mathew.
Perhaps you set a limit on your screen time each day or turn off your devices at a certain time every night. Whatever you do, carve in plenty of time for "real life." You'll be happier and healthier for it.
Dr. Mathew practices at Piedmont Physicians Vinings, located at 3020 Paces Mill Road Southeast, Atlanta, GA 30339. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Mathew or one of our other primary care providers. Save time, book online.
FAQs
Social media and your social life
How does internet affect your mental health? ›
Excessive Internet use may create a heightened level of psychological arousal, resulting in little sleep, failure to eat for long periods, and limited physical activity, possibly leading to the user experiencing physical and mental health problems such as depression, OCD, low family relationships and anxiety.
How does mental health affect your health? ›
Our bodies and minds are not separate, so it's not surprising that mental ill health can affect your body. Depression can come with headaches, fatigue and digestive problems, and anxiety can create an upset stomach, for example. Other symptoms can include insomnia, restlessness and difficulty concentrating.
How do mental health issues affect our daily lives? ›
Untreated mental illness can cause severe emotional, behavioral and physical health problems. Complications sometimes linked to mental illness include: Unhappiness and decreased enjoyment of life. Family conflicts.
How does the Internet affect people's health? ›
Digital eye strain
Constant exposure to digital devices can be harmful to our eyes. Digital eye strain, sometimes called Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS), is one of the most commonly reported symptoms of too much screen time. For example, one study suggested over 60% of Americans were affected by it.
How does the internet affect your life? ›
With the internet, a vast ocean of information is just a click away. We can instantly access news, research, educational resources, and tutorials. This unprecedented access to information has democratized learning and empowered individuals to acquire new skills and knowledge.
How does social media affect mental health? ›
Viewing posts from friends and family across the world can be a way to make you feel more connected. However, social media use has a dark side. Social media can negatively impact our overall wellbeing by fueling anxiety, depression, loneliness and FOMO (fear or missing out).
What are the factors that affect mental health? ›
Biological factors, e.g. physical health, genetics, diet, sleep, age. Psychological factors, e.g. beliefs, mental health diagnoses, perception, addictions. Social factors, e.g. relationships, family, culture, work, money, housing.
How does mental health affect the brain? ›
Most scientists believe that mental illnesses result from problems with the communication between neurons in the brain (neurotransmission). For example, the level of the neurotransmitter serotonin is lower in individuals who have depression. This finding led to the development of certain medications for the illness.
Why is mental health so important? ›
Mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make healthy choices. Mental health is important at every stage of life, from childhood and adolescence through adulthood.
People with severe mental health conditions die 10 to 20 years earlier than the general population. And having a mental health condition increases the risk of suicide and experiencing human rights violations.
Who does mental health affect? ›
Mental illness does not discriminate; it can affect anyone regardless of your age, gender, geography, income, social status, race, ethnicity, religion/spirituality, sexual orientation, background or other aspect of cultural identity.
How does technology affect your mental health? ›
Studies by The National Library of Medicine have shown that for some people, being constantly connected can cause psychological issues such as expectation of instant gratification, distraction, narcissism, sleep issues, stress, even anxiety and depression.
How does the Internet affect our minds? ›
In addition to its negative effects on cognition, excess internet use has been associated with a higher risk for depression and anxiety, and can make us feel isolated and/or overwhelmed. How can we lessen these negative impacts our brains?
What are the negative effects of the Internet? ›
One of the biggest negative impacts of the internet is identity theft. Cybercriminals can steal personal information such as ID numbers, addresses, dates of birth, and other sensitive information. This data can then be used to commit fraud, open bank accounts, or apply for loans in the victim's name.
How does social media impact your mental health? ›
Viewing posts from friends and family across the world can be a way to make you feel more connected. However, social media use has a dark side. Social media can negatively impact our overall wellbeing by fueling anxiety, depression, loneliness and FOMO (fear or missing out).
