The dark side of our socials

I am writing to express my concerns about the rise of social media and its impact on society. While platforms like Facebook and Instagram have revolutionised the way we connect, they also present significant drawbacks that affect mental health, interpersonal relationships, and our perception of reality. Research indicates a correlation between excessive social media use and heightened anxiety and depression, particularly among young people, as constant comparisons to curated portrayals of others can lead to feelings of inadequacy. Furthermore, social media distorts our understanding of reality by enabling the rapid spread of misinformation, which fosters confusion and distrust in credible news sources and contributes to societal polarisation.

To tackle these challenges, we must promote healthier online habits and encourage users to take breaks from social media. Educational institutions and communities should provide resources on digital literacy to empower individuals to critically evaluate the information they encounter online. By prioritising mental well-being and creating supportive environments, we can navigate the complexities of the digital age while mitigating the adverse effects of social media.

Abeeha Asad

Karachi