For Social Media Explorer, this resource delves deep into the intricate relationship between social media platforms and substance abuse, exploring how digital interactions on social media accounts can both reflect and influence addictive behaviors, as well as support recovery from addiction.

The Digital Echo Chamber of Substance Abuse

Social media sites have transformed how we perceive and interact with substance use, creating powerful mechanisms that can normalize and even glamorize addictive behaviors.

The digital landscape presents a nuanced environment where substance abuse can be simultaneously hidden and highlighted.

How Social Media Shapes Substance Use Perceptions

The algorithmic nature of social media platforms creates a perfect storm for potential substance abuse risks:

• Content Curation: Algorithms prioritize engaging content, often showcasing lifestyle posts that feature drinking or partying
• Peer Influence: Constant exposure to peers’ substance-related posts can gradually normalize problematic behaviors and drug use
• Visual Triggers: Continuous stream of images and videos that romanticize substance use
• False Narrative Creation: Carefully curated posts that present substance use as glamorous or consequence-free

What makes this digital ecosystem particularly dangerous is its ability to create echo chambers. Users find themselves in increasingly narrow networks that reinforce existing behaviors, making it challenging to recognize potential substance abuse patterns.

Psychological Triggers and Mental Health Connections

The relationship between social networking sites and substance abuse runs much deeper than surface-level interactions. These platforms have become powerful psychological triggers that can exacerbate mental health challenges.

The Self-Medication Cycle

Social media-induced stress often drives individuals toward substance use as a coping mechanism. This self-medication cycle typically follows a predictable pattern:

1. Exposure to anxiety-inducing content
2. Increased feelings of inadequacy or isolation
3. Seeking temporary relief through substance use
4. Sharing or concealing substance-related experiences online
5. Reinforcing the destructive behavioral cycle

Key psychological factors include:

• Continuous social comparison
• Amplified feelings of loneliness
• Heightened anxiety and depression
• Reduced authentic social interactions

The Risks of Social Media Addiction for Social Media Users

In the age of digital connectivity, social media addiction has emerged as a significant concern, particularly among young adults. Spending excessive time on social media platforms can lead to a myriad of negative effects, including mental health problems, social isolation, and decreased productivity.

The constant barrage of curated content can create feelings of inadequacy, driving individuals to seek solace in substance abuse as a coping mechanism.

Social media addiction often results in a decline in face-to-face interactions, which are crucial for building and maintaining healthy relationships. This lack of real-world social engagement can lead to feelings of loneliness and disconnection, further exacerbating mental health issues. Additionally, the sedentary lifestyle associated with prolonged screen time can reduce physical activity, contributing to overall health decline.

To combat these risks, social media users should be proactive in managing their digital consumption. Setting limits on social media use, engaging in regular physical activities, and seeking professional treatment and support if symptoms of addiction arise are essential steps.

By being mindful of their social media habits, individuals can protect their mental and physical well-being.

Exposure to Substance Abuse on Social Media

Social media platforms have become a double-edged sword, offering both connectivity and exposure to harmful content. Social media advertising often promotes substance use, while user-generated posts can glorify drug and alcohol use. This exposure can normalize and even encourage substance abuse, particularly among impressionable young people.

Studies have shown that a significant percentage of adolescents encounter substance use content on social media, with many seeing such posts daily. This constant exposure can desensitize young people to the dangers of drug and alcohol use, making them more susceptible to experimenting with substances.

Parents, educators, and healthcare professionals must be vigilant in addressing these risks. Monitoring social media use, providing education on the dangers of substance abuse, and seeking intervention when necessary are crucial steps in protecting young people from the negative influences of social media.

By fostering open communication and awareness, we can help mitigate the impact of harmful content on social media platforms.

Comparing Yourself to Others on Social Media

The culture of comparison fostered by social media platforms can have detrimental effects on mental health. Social media users often find themselves comparing their lives to the curated, often unrealistic portrayals of others. This can lead to feelings of inadequacy, low self-esteem, and decreased self-confidence.

Research indicates that individuals who spend more time on social media are more likely to experience depression and anxiety. The constant comparison to others’ seemingly perfect lives can exacerbate these feelings, potentially leading to substance abuse as a means of coping.

To mitigate these risks, social media users should be mindful of their online habits. Taking regular breaks from social media, engaging in activities that promote self-esteem and self-confidence, and seeking professional help if symptoms of depression or anxiety arise are essential strategies.

By focusing on their own well-being and mental health care practices and reducing the emphasis on social comparison, individuals can foster a healthier relationship with social media.

Social Media Platforms-Specific Substance Abuse Risks

Each social media platform presents unique challenges in the substance abuse landscape:

Instagram

The visual-first platform creates subtle yet powerful substance use narratives. Influencer content, hashtag trends, and lifestyle posts often glamorize drinking and party culture, presenting substance use as a desirable social experience.

Parents should be aware of the content teens are exposed to on their social media accounts and discuss the mental health risks associated with substance use depicted online.

TikTok

Short-form content on this platform can rapidly normalize risky behaviors. Trend-driven challenges and algorithmically curated content can expose younger users to potentially dangerous substance-related content with minimal context or consequence explanation.

Facebook

With its diverse user base and community groups, Facebook presents complex substance abuse risk factors.

Community interactions, marketplace features, and group dynamics can create environments that inadvertently enable or even encourage substance use behaviors.

Protective Strategies for Digital Well-being

Mitigating social media’s potential substance abuse risks requires a multifaceted approach:

Digital Harm Reduction Techniques

• Implement periodic social media detoxes
• Curate feed to prioritize positive, health-focused content
• Use platform settings to limit exposure to triggering content
• Follow accounts that promote mental wellness and recovery

Mental Health Support Strategies

• Seek professional counseling
• Join supportive online recovery communities
• Utilize mental health tracking apps
• Develop offline support networks

Conclusion

For Social Media Explorer readers, understanding the complex interplay between digital platforms and substance abuse is crucial. Technology is not inherently harmful—it’s our approach and awareness that determines its impact.

By maintaining digital mindfulness, implementing strategic boundaries, and leveraging technology’s positive potential, individuals can navigate these challenging landscapes more effectively. Remember, your digital well-being is an integral part of your overall health journey.

Disclaimer: This resource is for informational purposes. If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse, please contact professional healthcare providers or substance abuse helplines.

Mental Health Support Resources

• National Substance Abuse Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP
• SAMHSA Treatment Locator: www.findtreatment.gov
• Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741

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Clutter may divert unconscious attention, making it more likely you’ll forget things, make simple mistakes, and be more easily overwhelmed. 

The human brain can take in 11 million bits of information every second. This is pretty amazing, but the conscious brain can only process 40 to 50 bits of information every second. That means that the vast majority of our awareness either passes right by us or is filed unconsciously, where it may not be readily accessed to make decisions. 

How does the brain make up for this discrepancy? There are a few theories. One is that the brain will make cognitive shortcuts to make sense of patterned information. For example, this gap between what we perceive and what we process is also the reason why humans suffer from unconscious bias. Unconscious bias, often referred to as implicit bias, is the hidden prejudices and stereotypes that affect our judgments and decisions without us even realizing it. These biases are ingrained in our subconscious through societal influences and personal experiences. Examples of unconscious bias include implicit racial biases, gender biases, confirmation biases, and age biases. 

Another theory is that it chooses whatever is most prominent—so a big, colorful piece of information will be filed away consciously more frequently than a smaller piece of information. You’ll consciously notice a loud car driving down the street before the ladybug flying past your ear. 

How does clutter affect our ability to process information? 

Well, if you only have 40-50 bits of information, and one is held up on the laundry, another on yesterday’s lunch sitting on your desk, a few on the notifications coming in on your phone, one each for the sticky notes and open notebooks with important information scrawled on each line. . . you may only have 20 or so bits of information left for processing the problem at hand. 

All of this together results in a brain that tires easier, jumps to unconscious decisions without consciously thinking about it, and that cannot see the problem for what it truly is. 

How does clutter affect our mental health? 

Clutter can lead to: 

• Lower life satisfaction
• Negative emotions about the self
• Higher rates of depression
• Higher rates of mood disorders
• Lower psychological well-being
• Higher consumption of unhealthy food. 

One study found that people who live with a lot of clutter do more critical self-evaluation. Overall, strong links have been found between clutter and decreased mental health, especially depression. 

How to get less clutter

The answer isn’t to be a minimalist—although that’s great if that works for you. There’s been a resurgence of minimalist homes recently; social media is full of people showing off homes filled to the brim with color, trinkets, and personality. Is maximalism linked to mental health disorders? There hasn’t been many studies on that in particular, as home and lifestyles have just started to take the turn towards maximalism since the pandemic. 

Instead, what is well documented is shopping addiction and hoarding is linked to poor mental health. Other studies found that limiting your decisions can maximize your brain’s potential—increasing productivity and creativity while decreasing the risk for mental health disorders. (That’s why many successful people wear the same outfit every day!)

However, a minimalist life doesn’t have to be one that is overwhelming and wrought with shopping addiction or materialism. Instead, experts recommend these tips:

1. Think before you buy: Do you really need that? Will it bring you joy? How long will it bring you joy? Don’t fall into the capitalist trap of over-consumption. Think carefully about what you want and what you need. It’s perfectly healthy to fill your home with wants, just make sure you actually want them. 
2. Share things: Sure, maybe you need that one super specific cooking tool for that special birthday dinner or you really want to try that new crafting technique and need new tools. . . Instead of buying these items, which, let’s be honest, will be used maybe once, do you have friends or family who have them? Can you rent them? Can you go somewhere to use a tool without needing to buy it? Humans are meant to be in community with one another, so let yourself lean on your community. 
3. Work on your decision-making skills: If you struggle with procrastination or indecision, you may also struggle with clutter. Being able to say “I don’t need that anymore” is very decisive! Studies show that the best solution for people who struggle with procrastination isn’t time management but Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. 

Lastly, you may need to treat any mental health disorders, such as ADHD, anxiety, and depression. All of these are mental health issues which may contribute to clutter, and clutter can exacerbate them. Instead of forcing yourself to clean everything, which isn’t always sustainable, take the time to seek out therapy and get to the core issue of the problem. 

Therapy for Chronic Messiness and Clutter

Navigating chronic messiness and clutter can be a challenging journey, impacting not just our physical surroundings but also our mental and emotional well-being. If you find yourself struggling with maintaining a tidy space and feeling overwhelmed by clutter, therapy can be a valuable tool to help you address the root causes of these challenges and embark on a path to organized living.

Chronic messiness and clutter are often symptoms of deeper emotional struggles, such as anxiety, depression, or perfectionism. For some, clutter serves as a physical manifestation of internal turmoil, reflecting feelings of being trapped or out of control. Therapy provides a safe space to explore the underlying reasons behind chronic messiness and clutter, helping you uncover and address the emotional triggers that contribute to these patterns.

Therapy can help by: 

1. Identifying Root Causes:

In therapy, you can work with a trained professional to identify the underlying factors contributing to your chronic messiness and clutter. Whether it stems from past experiences, emotional distress, or mental health challenges, therapy can help you unravel the complexity of your relationship with clutter and develop strategies to address it effectively.

2. Developing Coping Strategies:

Through therapy, you can learn practical coping strategies to manage and reduce chronic messiness and clutter. Therapists can guide you in developing organizational skills, setting achievable goals, and establishing healthy routines that support a clutter-free lifestyle.

3. Addressing Emotional Barriers:

Therapy provides a supportive environment to address any emotional barriers that may be fueling chronic messiness and clutter. By exploring and processing your emotions with a therapist, you can develop healthy coping mechanisms and build resilience to navigate challenges more effectively.

Remember, seeking therapy for chronic messiness and clutter is a courageous step toward healing and transformation. Search for therapists near you who are licensed and capable, such as through Lifebulb (online and in-person), Sondermind (online only), or Grow Therapy (online only). 

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A new study finds that by providing CBT for anxiety before giving birth, new mothers’ risk for developing postpartum depression and anxiety decreases by 81%. 

The study, conducted in Pakistan, involved over 700 pregnant women. Half of these women were given talk therapy as an intervention for prenatal anxiety. The other half were not. The therapy given was a form of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and taught the women how to identify anxious thoughts and behaviors and then replace them with positive, helpful thoughts and behaviors. 

Interestingly, this invention was done by non-specialists—people who have graduated with a psychology degree but have not undergone therapeutic training–who were taught how to apply the interventions. Specialists, such as Licensed Professional Therapists or Licensed Clinical Social Workers, are likely to produce even greater results. 

6 weeks after childbirth, the study found interesting discrepancies between the group that received the CBT  intervention and the group that did not. 

• 9% of women in the intervention group had moderate-to-severe anxiety
• 27% of those in the control group had moderate-to-severe anxiety 
• 12% of women in the intervention group had a major depressive episode.
• 41% of women in the control group had a major depressive episode. 

The findings indicate that interventions for anxiety and depression before giving birth can drastically reduce depression and anxiety symptoms after giving birth. 

What is Postpartum Depression?

Welcoming a new life into the world is a moment filled with joy and hope. However, for 10-15% of new mothers, the postpartum period can bring unexpected challenges in the form of postpartum depression. Postpartum depression is a mental health condition that affects parents after the birth of a child. It can manifest in various ways and may not always be easily recognizable.

Symptoms of Postpartum Depression include: 

1. Intense sadness or feelings of emptiness
2. Persistent feelings of guilt or worthlessness
3. Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed
4. Fatigue and lack of energy
5. Changes in appetite and sleep patterns
6. Irritability, restlessness, or agitation
7. Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
8. Thoughts of self-harm or suicide

These symptoms can be overwhelming and make it challenging to navigate daily life. It’s important to remember that postpartum depression is a common and treatable condition. Seeking help from healthcare providers or mental health professionals is a crucial step towards recovery and reclaiming your mental well-being. Remember, you are not alone in this journey, and there is hope for brighter days ahead.

It is essential to note that postpartum depression is different from the mild “baby blues,” which are common in the early postpartum period. If these symptoms persist beyond two weeks or are severe, it is important to seek professional help from healthcare providers or mental health professionals. 

How Does Therapy Help Postpartum Depression? 

Talk therapy, also known as psychotherapy, can be beneficial for individuals experiencing postpartum depression. Through talk therapy, individuals can work through their depressive symptoms with the support of mental health professionals such as psychiatrists, psychologists, or counselors. Here are ways in which talk therapy can help individuals with postpartum depression:

1. Providing a Safe Space: Talk therapy offers a safe and professional environment for individuals to openly discuss their symptoms and emotions.
2. Coping Tools: Mental health care providers teach coping mechanisms and strategies to manage the symptoms of postpartum depression.
3. Emotional Support: Engaging in talk therapy allows individuals to receive emotional support and guidance, aiding them in navigating the challenges of postpartum depression.
4. Validation and Understanding: Through talk therapy, individuals experiencing postpartum depression can feel validated and understood, which is essential for their healing process.
5. Skill-Building: Talk therapy can help individuals develop new skills to manage stress, improve communication, and promote self-care.

Lifebulb Counseling and Therapy, a leading mental health company offering online and in-person therapy, says “Therapy is a great choice for moms dealing with postpartum mood disorders . . . Therapy can give you effective coping skills so you can manage your mood swings and anger in real-time as well as address any underlying mental health issues. Many mothers who experience postpartum depression, for example, were already struggling with depression; they were just hiding it well.” 

It’s important to note that every individual’s experience with postpartum depression is unique, and the effectiveness of talk therapy may vary. However, seeking professional help and exploring the option of talk therapy can be a crucial step toward recovery and improved mental well-being.

If you are pregnant and would like to be proactive in your postpartum mental health journey, talk to a licensed therapist today.  

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Introduction:

There’s a hidden mental health crisis growing behind closed doors, and it’s affecting one people group worse than others: family caregivers. 

Behind every person who struggles with their mental health is a support system of family and friends who care for them. Sometimes this caring can take a toll. Caregivers report higher levels of anxiety and depression than non-caregivers. 

It’s heartbreaking to watch someone you love go through mental health issues. Even though you don’t blame them for their struggles or regret helping them, caring for someone struggling with their mental health is exhausting. It’s important to be there for friends and family going through a tough time, absolutely, but by denying yourself rest and healing, you’re exacerbating mental health symptoms in yourself. 

Most families deal with a major mental health crisis 

In times of mental health crisis, families often face challenging circumstances. It can be overwhelming and distressing, but it’s important to remember that you’re not alone. Many families have encountered similar situations and have found ways to navigate through them. Let’s take a look at some statistics that shed light on how families cope during these difficult times:

• Twenty-eight percent of all Americans say that their family had to take a painful step, like institutionalizing a family member because they were a threat to themselves or others. This decision can be heart-wrenching, but it’s essential to prioritize the safety and well-being of your loved one.
• Twenty-one percent said they or a family member had a drug overdose requiring an ER visit. Substance abuse often co-occurs with mental health issues, and seeking immediate medical attention is crucial in such situations.
• Fourteen percent said they or a family member ran away from home and lived on the streets due to mental health issues. Homelessness resulting from mental health struggles can be incredibly challenging. Connecting with local resources and support services can help provide safety and stability.
• Sixteen percent said a family member experienced homelessness because of a mental health problem. It’s heartbreaking to see a loved one without a place to call home. Accessing community resources, such as shelters and mental health outreach programs, can offer assistance and guidance.
• Eight percent said they or a family member had a severe eating disorder requiring hospitalization or in-person treatment. Eating disorders are serious conditions that require professional intervention. Seeking specialized care and treatment can lead to a path of recovery and healing.
• Twenty-six percent said they or a family member engaged in cutting or self-harm behaviors. Self-harm can be a coping mechanism for emotional distress. Encouraging open communication and seeking help from mental health professionals can provide healthier strategies for dealing with emotional pain.
• Lastly, 16% had a family member who died from suicide. Losing a loved one to suicide is an unimaginable tragedy. Remember that support is available, and reaching out to mental health professionals and support groups can help navigate the grieving process.

While these statistics highlight the challenges families may face, they also emphasize the importance of reaching out for support. Seeking professional help, such as therapy or counseling, can be a lifeline during such circumstances.

The Impact a Mentally Ill Family Member Has on Individuals

Helping a mentally ill family member can have a profound impact on individuals who are tasked with providing care and support. The emotional and physical demands of caretaking can lead to burnout and take a toll on one’s own mental health. It’s important to recognize the signs and symptoms of burnout to address these challenges effectively. Here are some symptoms individuals may experience as a result of caretaking for a mentally ill family member:

1. Fatigue and Exhaustion: Constantly caring for a mentally ill family member can drain one’s energy reserves, leading to persistent fatigue and exhaustion.
2. Irritability and Anxiety: The stress and responsibilities of caretaking can cause individuals to feel constantly on edge, leading to increased irritability and anxiety.
3. Social Withdrawal: Caretaking duties may limit an individual’s time for self-care and social activities, resulting in withdrawal from social connections and a sense of isolation.
4. Changes in Sleep Patterns: The ongoing worry and demands of a mentally ill family member can disrupt sleep patterns, leading to difficulties in falling asleep or staying asleep.
5. Neglecting Personal Needs: Individuals may prioritize the needs of their mentally ill family member over their own, neglecting self-care activities and personal needs.
6. Feelings of Guilt and Resentment: Balancing the responsibilities of caretaking and personal life can evoke feelings of guilt and resentment towards the mentally ill family member for the impact it has on one’s own well-being.
7. Physical Health Issues: Chronic stress and neglect of personal health can contribute to physical health problems, such as headaches, digestive issues, and a weakened immune system.

Over four in ten families say a family member’s mental health crisis had a major impact on their own mental health or their family’s relationships. One in five say it had a major impact on the family’s financial situation.

It’s essential for individuals who find themselves in the role of a caretaker to prioritize their own mental health and seek support. Remember, addressing your own mental health needs is crucial for maintaining your well-being and continuing to support your loved one effectively.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the findings of this new study shed light on the widespread impact of severe mental health-related crises within American families. The statistics reveal the magnitude of the challenges faced by individuals navigating the complexities of institutionalization, substance abuse emergencies, homelessness, and other distressing situations within their own homes. Though these numbers may be disheartening, it is important to remember that there is hope. These findings serve as a wake-up call for society to prioritize mental health support, destigmatize seeking help, and increase access to resources and services. By working together, we can foster a society that values mental well-being and offers the support needed to navigate through these crises. Remember, you are not alone in this journey. Help is available, and there are individuals and organizations committed to helping you live your brightest life. 

For more information on mental health, check out resource centers like NAMI, Resources to Recover, and Mental Health America. 

To find a therapist near you, we recommend Lifebulb Counseling and Therapy or Sondermind (online therapy only). 

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Stress can cause the following:

Feelings of fear, anger, sadness, worry, numbness, or frustration

Changes in appetite, energy, desires, and interests

Difficulty concentrating and making decisions

Difficulty sleeping or nightmares

Physical reactions, such as headaches, body pains, stomach problems, and skin rashes

Worsening of chronic health problems

Worsening of mental health conditions

Increased use of tobacco, alcohol, and other substances

Helen Lee Schifter has many techniques for keeping a positive mindset. Take breaks from watching, reading, or listening to news stories, including those on social media. It’s good to be informed, but hearing about the pandemic constantly can be upsetting. Consider limiting news to just a couple times a day and disconnecting from phone, tv, and computer screens for a while.

Exercise 

Whether it’s going for a run, a walk, doing yoga or working out with weights at home, exercise is a great way to relieve stress. The endorphins released promote feelings of well-being, and of course it’s always important to stay healthy.

Take Deep Breaths

Deep breathing helps people calm down. Stretching and meditation are other good ways to relax.

Get Plenty of Sleep

 Sleep is good for the immune system and better sleep = better mood.

Avoid Excessive Alcohol, Tobacco, and Substance Use 

It’s easy to fall prey to our vices when stressed but in the end, these will only make us feel worse.

Get Vaccinated With a COVID-19 Vaccine When Available

 The vaccine is becoming more widely available, and is the best way to stop the spread of the virus.

Make Time to Unwind

 Do enjoyable activities like reading, puzzles, games. Even binge-watching a favorite series is a good way to relax.

Connect With Others

This is a great time to forge community connections. While social distancing is still in place, many communities have email list-serves and outside activities. Faith-based organizations have online services and worship groups. When walking around the neighborhood, take the time to get to stop and say hi to neighbors, maybe even make new friends. Connect with loved ones through phone calls, video calling, emails and even old fashioned snail mail! Helen Lee Schifter says she loves getting letters in her mailbox, and she enjoys sending them, as well. Letters can become little works of art with just some colored pencils or markers, stickers or even pressed flowers.

It’s important to take care of our bodies and minds during these tough times. The more energy we put into taking care of ourselves, the better we will feel and the easier it will be to get through this. Use this time to slow down and connect with others in whatever ways are possible. This could be a great time to reconnect with ourselves and our loved ones, to look inside and to find out what is really important to us.

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Exercise also helps one form a routine in their lives. With or without a physical trainer, exercise requires the practice of holding oneself accountable. For example, a workout regimen details a goal to work out every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. Whether or not someone completes this fully, there is still a sense of accomplishment. Say Tuesday is too busy. There is a decision to move forward and adjust the day or have a small defeat be an end-all-be-all. Having a routine requires an ability to navigate how to move past inconveniences that is ultimately self-taught. Once one gradually implements and masters this, stress is sure to reduce in life. If this can be practiced through an exercise routine, it can be applied to all areas of life.

Shalom Lamm, a successful CEO and entrepreneur, is living proof of this. He believes success lies in inner wealth and much as outer. While one must give to others, they also must give back to themselves. Wealth extends outwards; if one starts on self-help, they form a healthier self better equipped to give back to others. He finds the time to exercise as much as possible to improve his mental health as much as the physical. As priorly mentioned, his consistent exercise regimen allows for a mental place of clarity. A place that is surely a great foundation for self-betterment. Especially in times that are dire as they are now, having and maintaining a sense of inner peace has never been so important.

Role-models like Shalom Lamm are humbling reminders that anyone is capable of building a more stable life through simplicity. With acts simple as going for a walk to increase those endorphins or moving a workout to a different day, one begins a journey towards self-agency and trust. Combining this improved relationship with self and the countless benefits of regular exercise, stress is sure to melt away.

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Still, we shouldn’t ignore the benefits of social media on our emotional wellbeing. Social media isn’t inherently bad for mental health, and it can be positive and uplifting if used in the right way.

1. Social media deepens your sense of community 

Sure, scrolling through social media should never take the place of personal interaction with the people in your neighborhood, at your work, or at your school.

But there are other communities that you don’t engage with everyday, and with which you rarely have the opportunity to engage in-person. These are communities that you build in addition to the ones you’re part of at home. Often, they’re communities you didn’t even know existed, communities of people who share your interests and hobbies and who live all over the country and all over the world.

You might, for example, uncover a global community of backpackers through sites like Couchsurfing and strengthen that community based on your shared interests and through your online connections with them on social media. You might find people who relate to this hobby, who can talk with you and give you advice, and whom you wouldn’t be able to otherwise access in-person.

Or you might be new at a university and join a social media group that’s specifically for new admits. When you feel lost and isolated in a new place, you can find a source of comfort in engaging online with people who are navigating the same problems you are.

We can see this in ever-popular chat apps like Line and WhatsApp. The group chats that these platforms facilitate aren’t merely about making texting more convenient. More importantly, they’re about maintaining relationships with the communities we’re a part of and the people we love.

2. Social media builds personal empowerment

While there’s lots of talk about social media lowering one’s self-esteem, it can also have the opposite effect if used correctly.

When you get involved in an online community, you’re not just developing a network of friends. You’re also engaging with hobbies you love, cultivating your own interests, and shaping your sense of identity, in part, around those hobbies and interests. You create an identity for yourself that grows out of your experience in a community–whether you’re a Star Wars lover or an arts and crafts guru.

Social media platforms can also build personal empowerment by helping you form a network of people who lie outside your family or immediate community but who nonetheless support you in your interests and passions. URIJI, for example, is a platform that lets people share their goals and life projects through images and video, allowing them to use social media to explore the experiences that define them as individuals. It also lets their followers offer donations and words of encouragement, providing users with a supportive digital community.

Because social media allows people to explore their own interests while engaging with their digital communities, it can help boost self-esteem and make people feel encouraged in the pursuit of their goals, whether they’re fitness goals, travel goals, or something else.

3. Social media keeps you in touch with relatives and old friends

Surveys have shown that nearly two thirds of social media users primarily use the digital platforms to keep in touch with family and friends. Social media provides us with updates on the lives of our loved ones back home, filling in the gaps between our infrequent visits. We can see how much our brother’s kids have grown, or we can hear about our friend’s recent trip abroad.

Chat apps have made staying in touch even easier, since they allow us to text and make phone calls without a data plan. The principle of staying in touch is even built into the design of apps like Tinyblu, which sends reminders to users when they go too long without contacting their friends.

Platforms that don’t necessarily involve direct conversation still go deeper than just mindless scrolling. Even the biggest social media platforms are less about stalking and more about keeping up with the ever-evolving lives of the people we care about. We better understand what our friend’s life is like in New York, for example, when we get visuals of her day-to-day activity on Snapchat. This is stuff that we just don’t get over the phone, and it makes us feel a little less disconnected from so far away.

4. Social media keeps you engaged in causes you care about

The purpose of social media, of course, isn’t just to stay updated with friends. It’s also to stay updated with causes and organizations you care about.

Keeping up with the work of your favorite volunteer organizations, for example, can boost your optimism about the causes you believe in. Following the progress of organizations that are important to you helps you stay up-to-date with causes you care about, whether they’re climate change, disaster relief, or something else.

Tracking organizations on social media is also more convenient and efficient than separately visiting each of their websites or reading each of their newsletters. On top of that, mainstream platforms like Twitter and Facebook drive publicity for your favorite causes, spreading the word about important current events. 

5. Social media lets you spread joy

Often, when scrolling through a news site, we’re bombarded with information about global tragedies and local crime–and we’re given little information about worldwide acts of compassion or the kindness of strangers.

Social media sites, though, have proven good vehicles for disseminating more positive information. In fact, unlike on news sites, most of the stuff we read on social media–whether they’re updates from friends or shared posts–is uplifting and, often, humorous.

We might see uplifting pictures and stories like those from Upworthy or Humans of New York. Or, we might see jokes and funny animal videos shared and posted by friends.

While anything–social media included–can be used in unhealthy ways, our obsession with social media is more good than bad. We use social media to stay updated with all the good stuff going on in the world and to add humor to long days at work and early morning bus rides. We use social media to stay in touch with family and friends, and to strengthen our sense of community. And we use social media to empower ourselves as we engage with our passions. All this keeps us a little more optimistic.

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What better time to share the message about Wediko and all that they do? Wediko responds to the needs of children who face repeated obstacles to development due to social, emotional, behavioral, and learning challenges. They partner with children, families, schools, and the community to offer a continuum of flexible and multidisciplinary programs. Not only do they have The Wediko School and home based solutions, but they also have a summer program at their beautiful camp in the woods of New Hampshire. They’ve been doing all of this and more since their formation in 1934. Last year the day after I returned from a trip to Ghana, I took part in their first ever stair climb fund raiser. We raised over $18,000 and it has now become an annual tradition.

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