Unmasking the Risk to Mental Wellness from Social Media Outlets

Social media platforms can provide opportunities for social connection and companionship, and these online communities can lessen the impact of loneliness and isolation on mental and emotional health. However, numerous studies provide strong evidence that social media use can actually increase feelings of anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and isolation. Particularly for adolescents, social media platforms can carry serious risks, such as cyberbullying, sexualization, disrupted identity development, and impaired relationship formation. This session will provide an overview of these risks and explore the consequences of excessive reliance on social media outlets for human interaction. In addition, presenters will discuss strategies to mitigate these negative impacts and support mental wellness on social media platforms.