Negative effects of social media:

        In today’s society, social media fuels mental health issues.  The frequent use of social media is linked to depression, anxiety, sadness, stress, and feelings of loneliness and isolation.  It also disrupts sleep by disrupting the circadian rhythms.  It’s also a factor in suicidal feelings or thoughts.  

Treatments:

        Common treatments for mental health conditions mentioned are…

• Self-care is characterized by reducing habits, such as excessive smoking, drinking, and caffeine intake. Habits such as meditation and breathing techniques should be increased.  These help to manage stress, in addition to a healthier diet.  Mindfulness and exercising often help alleviate these symptoms.  
• Therapy is another option to cope with mental health conditions.  It gives tools to overcome worries and fears while giving a new outlook on situations.  There are a few different types of therapy, with talk therapy being the most common.  Clients often are able to articulate their feelings and these negative thought cycles can be managed.

     Many therapists treat mental health conditions with meditation, which is a technique used to improve mindfulness and induce a calm state.  

• Psychotherapy is another approach that helps to manage or alleviate the symptoms of mental health conditions.  
• As always, if the symptoms are not able to be treated through these approaches, medication is always an alternative option.

Edited by TLC intern: Brigitte Black