In today’s hyperconnected world, social media is more than just a way to pass time—it’s how many of us, especially young adults, stay informed, build community, and express ourselves. But what does all this screen time mean for our mental health?

I’ve seen both sides of the story. So let’s discuss it: the positives, the negatives, and how to keep your relationship with social media mentally healthy.

📱 The Bright Side: How Social Media Can Support Mental Health

It’s not all doomscrolling and comparison traps. When used mindfully, social media can actually enhance mental wellbeing.

🌈 Community & Connection
For many, platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Reddit can be lifelines. They offer representation, support, and a sense of belonging—especially for those who might feel isolated in their offline lives, like LGBTQIA+ and Neurodivergent individuals.

🧠 Mental Health Education
From therapists sharing coping strategies to mental health organisations raising awareness, social media is full of valuable content. Hashtags like #MentalHealthAwareness, #NeurodivergentVoices and #TherapyTalk can open up important conversations and help reduce stigma.

I often share useful strategies, tips and insights over on Instagram, LinkedIn and Facebook. 

💬 Creative Self-Expression
Whether it’s writing, art, memes or storytelling, social platforms allow young adults to express themselves in ways that feel authentic. This can be incredibly empowering and validating, especially when traditional spaces feel limiting.

😵‍💫 The Downside: How Social Media Can Hurt Mental Health

That said, social media isn’t without its dark sides—particularly when it comes to mental health in young adults.

🔄 Constant Comparison
Seeing carefully curated highlights of other people’s lives can trigger feelings of inadequacy, low self-worth, and imposter syndrome. It’s easy to forget that you’re comparing your behind-the-scenes to someone else’s highlight reel.

⏳Endless Scrolling & Attention Drain
Social platforms are designed to keep you hooked. This can lead to doomscrolling, difficulty focusing, disrupted sleep, and burnout. Overuse can intensify symptoms of anxiety, depression, and disconnection from real-life support systems.

💔 Exposure to Toxic Content
From harmful “wellness” trends to idealised body image content, social media can sometimes reinforce unrealistic expectations. For those already struggling with self-esteem or disordered thinking, these messages can be damaging.

🧭 Finding the Balance: Social Media & Mental Health

Here’s the good news: you don’t have to give up social media to protect your mental health. Like with most things, it’s all about how you use it.

✅ Practical Tips:
- Curate your feed – Follow accounts that make you feel seen, empowered, and informed. Mute or unfollow those that don’t.
- Set boundaries – Try app timers or screen-free zones (especially before bed).
- Check in with yourself – How do you feel before and after scrolling? If worse, it might be time to take a break or adjust your habits.
- Make space for offline joy – Balance online time with real-world connection, movement, and rest.

🧡 Final Thoughts: It’s Not You, It’s the Algorithm

If social media is making you feel anxious, drained, or not “enough”—you’re not alone, and it’s not your fault. These platforms are engineered to hook you, but you don’t have to let them take over your wellbeing.

Awareness is the first step. Choice is the next.

If you're struggling with the mental load of online life—whether it’s from comparison, burnout, or just trying to keep up—I offer online therapy and telephone therapy tailored for young adults and adults alike, neurodivergent people, and the LGBTQIA+ community.

🔗 Book a free 20-minute consultation
🔗 Explore my other blog posts (below)
🔗 Learn more about online counselling at Mind Vista