As Instagram, an app that has over one billion users, celebrates its 10th birthday this year, it’s time to reflect and question just how healthy this perpetual ritual is.
Most of us are guilty of it, waking up and instantly reaching for our phones. But how and when did scrolling become ingrained into our daily routine? Whether it’s at home, on the commute to work or at an ‘instagrammable’ cocktail bar – chances are that you, your friend, or strangers opposite will be using the App.
Social media VS mental health
Immersing ourselves into the perfected, virtual reality of Instagram everyday sounds innocent enough, until the inevitable happens, and we start to compare ourselves to others; whether it’s the appearance or lifestyle of the accounts that we choose to follow.
“We’re human at the end of the day, which means we will always compare ourselves to what we see in others”.
– explains body positive influencer Millie Sharpe
The Internet hosts various interviews, videos, and articles which focus on the damaging effects that social media can have. Even journalist and influencer Katherine Ormerod delves into the subject in her book, ‘Why Social Media is Ruining Your Life’.
Clinical Psychologist, Emmah Jassim, believes that:
“Social media can have both positive and negative effects on mental health. Negative effects include low self-esteem, due to comparing oneself with others’ posts on social media sites, despite these posts often being edited and selectively chosen by the poster to portray a ‘perfect’ image. This can then lead to psychological distress due to feeling inadequate. However, some people may be able to find friends using social media, particularly if they live with anxiety and feel unable to meet people out and about. In addition, influencers on social media are able to make a living through what they post. As a result, social media may be empowering for certain people. My personal opinion about social media is that the potential harm may outweigh the benefits, due to there being many studies showing a link between social media and poor psychological wellbeing.”
FOMO
The second minor, yet problematic, cause of continuous Instagram usage is FOMO, aka fear of missing out.
Definition: ‘anxiety that an exciting or interesting event may currently be happening elsewhere, often aroused by posts seen on social media.’
Whether it’s at a bar, or iconic landmark, there will always be individuals glued to their smartphones.
In a world that heavily centres around technology use in our day to day lives, the idea that we’re missing out on other posts, or NEED to check a notification has become the norm (even in social settings).
It’s not all doom and gloom
Although social media often has a bad reputation in relation to mental health, Instagram has enabled many opportunities. Its universal knowledge that being an ‘influencer’ can now be a (well paid) career, despite the raised eyebrows it often receives. Topics that were once considered ‘taboo’, such as; depression, eating disorders, sex, cosmetic surgery and miscarriage are now openly discussed by influencers.
Meet Millie Sharpe, who uses Instagram to spread the idea of body positivity and self –love to her 18,300 followers.
“After scrolling through Instagram and rarely seeing anyone like myself, who I could relate to; I decided to try and make a difference for other people who may have once struggled with personal issues, or are still battling them.”
Sharpe’s grid is an influx of neon, harnesses, and festival inspired styling with risqué lingerie shots. A collection of photos that make us want to immediately ditch our traditional hair colour and reach for the nearest box dye.
“I’m trying to portray the message that everyone is beautiful and unique in their own way, flaws and all. I want people to feel good, uplifted and inspired when they look at my Instagram and if I can help at least one person with that, then I’ll be a happy lady.”
Technology detox?
Checked a notification or been tempted to have a ‘quick’ peep at Instagram whilst reading this article? If the answer is yes, it may be time to rethink your relationship with the Smartphone.
Technology has such a dominant place in our lives, it’s important to practise the act of moderation. Rather than taking the cold turkey approach to reduce screen time, replace scrolling with different activities. Reading a book, cooking, or even watching a film will (hopefully) prevent the inevitable thumb twiddling.
Clinical Psychologist, Emmah Jassim, advises:
“Limit time spent on social media and try and be mindful in the here and now in your own life. You could disable push notifications to help you resist temptation to have a quick scroll.”
Incapable of self-restraint? Order yourself a ‘Phone Jail’!
In hindsight, Instagram has enabled communities and small businesses to grow, as we connect with others on a global scale.
“For me, social media is an outlet for my creativity and the mostly encouraging feedback I receive has certainly boosted my confidence and made me want to keep creating.”
-Millie Sharpe
Like the majority of our indulgences, Instagram can have positive and negative implications. We’ve all been there, in a blissful haze of scrolling, and likely to be again, but next time you pick up your smartphone – make moderation is key your screen time mantra.
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