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Social Media Addiction

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For numerous young individuals, the initial act upon waking is checking social media, and it persists as the final activity before bedtime. Studies reveal that those aged 16 to 24 spend approximately three hours daily on social media. A growing number of individuals recognize the potential harm in these habits.

 

At what point does excessive social media use transform into a genuine addiction? How can one safeguard mental health from the detrimental effects of social media without forfeiting the benefits these apps offer?

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Social media is built to be addictive. The challenge of resisting the urge to check it stems from intentional design. Although these platforms appear free, users are not the customers; their attention is the commodity. The more time users spend, the more advertisers can target them, boosting the company's profits.

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The allure of social media is not only due to its constant availability on smartphones but also deliberate strategies to test your self-control. Infinite scrolling with no natural stopping points and persistent cues like notifications make it difficult to disengage. Some features, such as vibrant colors and attention-grabbing sounds, imitate the captivating experience of slot machines, a deliberate tactic for maximizing profits in casinos. However, the most potent driver of social media addiction is its ability to tap into our fundamental social instincts.

 

According to the Pew Research Center, here are the top social media platforms used by young adults ages 18–29:

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  • YouTube: 95%

  • Instagram: 71%

  • Facebook: 70%

  • Snapchat: 65%

  • TikTok: 48%

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What Causes Social Media Addiction?

Addiction, as defined by the American Society of Addiction Medicine, refers to the "compulsive use of substances or behaviors that persists despite detrimental consequences." There is ongoing debate among experts regarding the distinction between social media addiction and problematic overuse. However, it is estimated that approximately 5 to 10 percent of social media users may be addicted. The question arises: why do some individuals struggle to resist the allure of social media while others do not?

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Researchers have pinpointed several risk factors associated with social media addiction in young adults, including:

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  • Poor emotion regulation

  • Low self-esteem

  • Limited coping skills

Prevention and Treatment for Social Media Addiction

Embarking on a digital detox can prove effective in curbing habits that may precede social media addiction. While complete abstinence might cause distress, research indicates that even reducing usage to 10 minutes per platform per day for a week can lead to a heightened sense of well-being. Additionally, cutting back raises awareness of one's habits and their impact. Implementing straightforward measures, such as turning off notifications or keeping the phone out of reach at night, can result in lasting reductions in social media usage without significantly affecting the sense of connectedness.

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If there is a suspicion of social media addiction linked to underlying mental health issues, Newport Institute offers assistance. Our approach to healthy device management aims to uncover and address the root causes of behavioral addictions and co-occurring problems. We are committed to aiding young individuals in reclaiming a path towards a healthy, fulfilling, and balanced life.

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