It’s not a secret that social media is a huge outlet for people to shop, keep up with people’s lives, and get inspiration as well as information. Thirty-five percent of teens in the U.S say they are on at least one social media platform almost constantly. Another study also stated that the number of teens using social media has risen from twenty four to forty six percent, from 2014-15 to 2022. Whether it’s Snapchat, Twitter, Tik Tok, Instagram, or something else, many teens are on these apps.

All of the studies done on the percentage of teens on social media have also came with studies on the effects of social media on teens. It is said that social media distracts teens, disrupting their sleep, and exposing them to bullying. It causes rumors to start spreading, and unrealistic views of other people’s lives that can lead to peer pressure. There can be good effects that come with being a teen on social media. Social media can connect isolated teens and help them find supportive networks.

Another serious factor of social media is the possibility of being stalked. Social media is a way that people can find your information and interests easily. It is a way that someone can find the places a teen takes interest in or goes to school at. There can be a possibility of identity theft as well. This can happen by getting information and framing it to be someone else. 

Another thing that comes with social media is depression, anxiety, poor body image, and loneliness. According to Social Media and Mental Health Statistics, spending more than 3 hours on social media per day puts adolescents at a higher risk for mental health problems. Thirteen percent of kids ages twelve to seventeen report depression and thirty two percent report anxiety. Twenty -five percent of eighteen to twenty-five year olds report mental illness. This shows that there is a reason there is an incline in depression and anxiety for teens when surrounded by social media.

I know that social media takes a toll on my mental health. I feel a decline in my happiness when I spend long amounts on social media. I think that I compare myself to others and other’s lives they portray on social media. I think that it gives me a bad body image and sometimes makes me feel lonely. Overall I do not get the best results from being on social media. 

I can say that there are a few good things about social media. It allows me to share my passions and my religion with others. It also allows me to reach others more easily. And it allows me to be able to promote clubs and sporting events at my school or in my community.

Overall I think that social media can be used as a good or bad thing. I think that it has taken a lot of happiness and good body image from teens as well. What are your thoughts on social media?