Journalism Pakistan
Journalism Pakistan
Freedom of expression shrinks in Pakistan as PECA Amendments take toll: report اظہارِ رائے کی آزادی محدود، پیکا میں ترامیم سے میڈیا کو شدید دھچکا: رپورٹDawn urges Indian media to abandon war rhetoric ڈان کی بھارتی میڈیا سے جنگی بیانیہ ترک کرنے کی اپیلIndia bans 16 Pakistani YouTube channels following Pahalgan attack پہلگام حملے کے بعد بھارت نے پاکستان کے 16 یوٹیوب چینلز پر پابندی لگا دی'In A Different Realm' offers a philosophical take on cricket's greatest innings ان اے ڈیفرنٹ ریلم کرکٹ کی عظیم ترین اننگز پر ایک فکری نقطۂ نظر پیش کرتی ہےCoordinated or coincidence? Identical tweets by Pakistani journalists raise eyebrows ہم آہنگی یا محض اتفاق؟ پاکستانی صحافیوں کے ایک جیسے ٹویٹس نے سوالات اٹھا دیےThe PSL paradox: pageantry or progress? پی ایس ایل کا تضاد: دکھاوا یا ترقی؟Sher Afzal Marwat launches personal attacks on journalists after PTI expulsion پی ٹی آئی سے نکالے جانے کے بعد شیر افضل مروت کے صحافیوں پر ذاتی حملےJournalist Sanaullah Khan alleges FIA blocking accounts of YouTubers and families صحافی ثناء اللہ خان کا انکشاف: ایف آئی اے یوٹیوبرز اور ان کے خاندانوں کے اکاؤنٹس بلاک کر رہی ہےA launch in style: Dr. Nauman Niaz unveils 'In A Different Realm' ان اے ڈفرنٹ ریلم کی رونمائی: ڈاکٹر نعمان نیاز کی کتاب Sindhi journalist AD Shar brutally murdered, PFUJ declares three-day mourning سندھی صحافی اے ڈی شر کا بہیمانہ قتل، پی ایف یو جے نے تین روزہ سوگ کا اعلان کر دیاAJK government registers case against newspaper and staff آزاد کشمیر حکومت کا اخبار اور عملے کے خلاف مقدمہJournalist Arzoo Kazmi alleges FIA threats, possible arrest over reporting صحافی آرزو کاظمی کا دعویٰ: ایف آئی اے کی دھمکیاں، رپورٹنگ پر ممکنہ گرفتاری

Exploring the impact of social media on mental health

 JournalismPakistan.com |  Published July 18, 2024 |  Dr. Emily Hartman

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Exploring the impact of social media on mental health

NEW YORK—In the digital age, social media has become an integral part of our daily lives. Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok allow us to connect with friends and family, share experiences, and access a wealth of information. However, the omnipresence of social media has also sparked concerns about its impact on mental health. This article delves into recent studies and expert opinions to explore how social media use affects psychological well-being.

The Double-Edged Sword of Social Media
Social media can be both a blessing and a curse. On one hand, it provides opportunities for social connection, support, and community building, especially for individuals who may feel isolated in their offline lives. On the other hand, excessive use and exposure to certain types of content can contribute to anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues.

Recent Studies on Social Media and Mental Health
Increased Anxiety and Depression: A study published in the Journal of Social and Clinical Psychology found that limiting social media use to 30 minutes per day significantly reduced anxiety, depression, and loneliness in participants. The researchers attributed these findings to reduced exposure to social comparison and negative interactions.

Sleep Disruption: Research from the Sleep Foundation indicates that excessive social media use, particularly before bedtime, can disrupt sleep patterns. Poor sleep quality is closely linked to various mental health issues, including depression and anxiety.

Cyberbullying and Self-Esteem: A report by the Pew Research Center highlighted that adolescents who experience cyberbullying are at a higher risk of developing low self-esteem, anxiety, and depression. The anonymity provided by social media platforms can sometimes facilitate negative behaviors such as bullying and harassment.

Positive Effects of Online Support Groups: Not all findings are negative. A study in the American Journal of Health Promotion revealed that online support groups and communities can provide significant emotional support and improve mental health outcomes for individuals dealing with chronic illnesses or mental health conditions.

Expert Opinions
Experts emphasize the importance of a balanced approach to social media use. Dr. John Torous, a psychiatrist and director of the Digital Psychiatry Program at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, advocates for digital literacy and mindfulness. "Being aware of how social media affects your mood and mental state is crucial," says Dr. Torous. "Setting boundaries and taking regular breaks can help mitigate negative impacts."

Dr. Jean Twenge, a psychologist and author of "iGen," suggests that parents play an active role in monitoring their children's social media use. "Encouraging real-world interactions and limiting screen time can promote healthier development," she advises.

Practical Tips for Healthier Social Media Use
Set Time Limits: Use built-in app features to monitor and limit your daily social media usage.
Curate Your Feed: Follow accounts that inspire and uplift you, and unfollow or mute those that trigger negative emotions.
Take Regular Breaks: Schedule regular social media detox periods to recharge and focus on offline activities.
Engage Mindfully: Be intentional with your interactions and avoid passive scrolling.
Seek Support: If social media negatively impacts your mental health, consider talking to a mental health professional.

Social media is an undeniable force in today's world, with both positive and negative effects on mental health. By understanding these impacts and adopting healthier habits, we can enjoy the benefits of social media while safeguarding our mental well-being. As research continues to evolve, staying informed and proactive will be key to navigating the digital landscape responsibly.

About the author: Dr. Emily Hartman is a clinical psychologist and mental health researcher with experience in studying the effects of digital media on psychological well-being. She is passionate about promoting mental health awareness in the digital age.

Freedom of expression shrinks in Pakistan as PECA Amendments take toll: report

Freedom of expression shrinks in Pakistan as PECA Amendments take toll: report

 April 30, 2025:  Freedom of expression in Pakistan is under threat, as the 2025 Freedom Network report reveals increased arrests, censorship, and legal restrictions following amendments to PECA, posing serious risks to journalists and democratic values.

Dawn urges Indian media to abandon war rhetoric

Dawn urges Indian media to abandon war rhetoric

 April 30, 2025:  Dawn has criticized the Indian media's calls for war and condemned the banning of 16 Pakistani YouTube channels, urging a rational response after the Pahalgam attack that left 26 dead.

India bans 16 Pakistani YouTube channels following Pahalgan attack

India bans 16 Pakistani YouTube channels following Pahalgan attack

 April 28, 2025:  India has banned 16 Pakistani YouTube channels, including major news outlets and individual journalists, following the deadly Pahalgam attack. Tensions escalate as Islamabad demands a neutral probe.

Coordinated or coincidence? Identical tweets by Pakistani journalists raise eyebrows

Coordinated or coincidence? Identical tweets by Pakistani journalists raise eyebrows

 April 23, 2025:  Pakistani journalists respond in unison to a post hinting at a possible Indian military strike. Citing the 2019 ‘Swift Retort,’ they warn of a stronger response if provoked again.

Sher Afzal Marwat launches personal attacks on journalists after PTI expulsion

Sher Afzal Marwat launches personal attacks on journalists after PTI expulsion

 April 21, 2025:  After being expelled from PTI, MNA Sher Afzal Marwat launches personal attacks on journalists and Aleema Khan, sparking outrage on social media over his offensive remarks.

Journalist Sanaullah Khan alleges FIA blocking accounts of YouTubers and families

Journalist Sanaullah Khan alleges FIA blocking accounts of YouTubers and families

 April 21, 2025:  Journalist Sanaullah Khan reveals that the FIA has launched a financial crackdown on YouTubers by freezing the bank accounts of journalists and their family members—raising serious concerns over freedom of expression and legal process.

A launch in style: Dr. Nauman Niaz unveils 'In A Different Realm'

A launch in style: Dr. Nauman Niaz unveils 'In A Different Realm'

 April 20, 2025:  Dr. Nauman Niaz launched his fifteenth book, In A Different Realm: Story of Quadruple and Triple Centuries 1876–2025, at an elegant Islamabad event, reflecting on cricket’s rarest feats and his journey as a scholar of the game.

Sindhi journalist AD Shar brutally murdered, PFUJ declares three-day mourning

Sindhi journalist AD Shar brutally murdered, PFUJ declares three-day mourning

 April 11, 2025:  Sindhi journalist AD Shar was brutally murdered in Khairpur, Sindh. His body was found dumped on Handiyari Link Road. PFUJ has declared a three-day mourning period and demanded justice.

Newsroom
Freedom of expression shrinks in Pakistan as PECA Amendments take toll: report

Freedom of expression shrinks in Pakistan as PECA Amendments take toll: report

 April 30, 2025 Freedom of expression in Pakistan is under threat, as the 2025 Freedom Network report reveals increased arrests, censorship, and legal restrictions following amendments to PECA, posing serious risks to journalists and democratic values.

Dawn urges Indian media to abandon war rhetoric

Dawn urges Indian media to abandon war rhetoric

 April 30, 2025 Dawn has criticized the Indian media's calls for war and condemned the banning of 16 Pakistani YouTube channels, urging a rational response after the Pahalgam attack that left 26 dead.

India bans 16 Pakistani YouTube channels following Pahalgan attack

India bans 16 Pakistani YouTube channels following Pahalgan attack

 April 28, 2025 India has banned 16 Pakistani YouTube channels, including major news outlets and individual journalists, following the deadly Pahalgam attack. Tensions escalate as Islamabad demands a neutral probe.

'In A Different Realm' offers a philosophical take on cricket's greatest innings

'In A Different Realm' offers a philosophical take on cricket's greatest innings

 April 23, 2025 Discover Dr. Nauman Niaz’s In A Different Realm: Story of Quadruple & Triple Centuries 1876–2025, a profound exploration of cricket's most monumental innings, blending historical analysis with poetic narrative.​

Coordinated or coincidence? Identical tweets by Pakistani journalists raise eyebrows

Coordinated or coincidence? Identical tweets by Pakistani journalists raise eyebrows

 April 23, 2025 Pakistani journalists respond in unison to a post hinting at a possible Indian military strike. Citing the 2019 ‘Swift Retort,’ they warn of a stronger response if provoked again.