Social media use is now an accepted part of life, and not just for young people. According to Statista (a social media statistics monitoring site), the average person spends 144 minutes on social media per day. This is an increase of 1 hour per day since 2012.
We all need social connections and social support. Therefore, the pull towards social media is understandable. But the connections we make on social media fall far short of the quality of connections we make in person.
The motivation and results of using social media
Research shows us that extroverts use social media as a tool for social enhancement while isolated people or introverts use it as a way of social compensation.
If the motivation to use social media is to form meaningful social connections, it can lead to greater feelings of isolation and loneliness. It is impossible to have real conversations on social media as meaningful connections can only be made in person. The lack of true connection can cause us to feel hopeless and disconnected from others.
Signs social media use is hurting rather than helping
There are many signs that your social media use is hurting you rather than helping you. If you are using social media instead of engaging in real relationships, you may:
- Have trouble forming strong attachments with others
- Feel like you can’t be without your phone
- Find yourself looking at your phone instead of interacting with those around you
- Feel lonely
- Struggle with depression
- Struggle with feelings of hopelessness
- Feel isolated from others
Therapy in Los Angeles
Donna Groves, MA, LMFT, is a therapist and life coach in Los Angeles. She is within traveling distance from Malibu and Santa Monica. Donna works with people struggling with addiction, trauma, anxiety, depression, and more, in-office and online.
If you would like to learn more, you are welcome to arrange a complimentary consultation or appointment by calling or filling out the contact form and click Send.