While we posted an article previously on social media use being associated with poor adolescent mental health, some may question if social media is all that bad, or if possibly it could be helpful or therapeutic for those with mental health issues.
The article, "Teen Depression and How Social Media Can Help or Hurt" provides just this alternative point of view, suggesting that for some youth social media may actually be a positive thing in their lives and may be beneficial in addressing mood disorders. The author, who is a physician, describes her own son's struggle with depression and anxiety, and shares how through Instagram and Youtube he came to see that he was not alone when it came to the dark and confusing emotions he was experiencing. More than that, through these online connections, videos, and photos her son found hope, love, support and positivity, which she believes help him to stay strong.
"In the past several years, we have seen many devastating stories of teenage suicides and their link with interactions on social media. But I think it would be a serious mistake to classify all social media as negative.
Research supports that social media can help friendships: 52% of teens report a positive impact, as opposed to only 4% saying it was a negative. Posting on Facebook and viewing one's profile may help improve self-esteem.
Most clearly what I've heard from my son is about the huge amount of support peers give each other when they are depressed or are the targets of bullying."
The article, "Teen Depression and How Social Media Can Help or Hurt" provides just this alternative point of view, suggesting that for some youth social media may actually be a positive thing in their lives and may be beneficial in addressing mood disorders. The author, who is a physician, describes her own son's struggle with depression and anxiety, and shares how through Instagram and Youtube he came to see that he was not alone when it came to the dark and confusing emotions he was experiencing. More than that, through these online connections, videos, and photos her son found hope, love, support and positivity, which she believes help him to stay strong.
"In the past several years, we have seen many devastating stories of teenage suicides and their link with interactions on social media. But I think it would be a serious mistake to classify all social media as negative.
Research supports that social media can help friendships: 52% of teens report a positive impact, as opposed to only 4% saying it was a negative. Posting on Facebook and viewing one's profile may help improve self-esteem.
Most clearly what I've heard from my son is about the huge amount of support peers give each other when they are depressed or are the targets of bullying."
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