Beyond Selfies: How Social Media can help (and hurt) our Mental Health
Illustration: Yoonji ChoToday, social media is woven into all our lives –from the moment we wake up to the time we go to bed. We’re scrolling through Instagram, chatting on WhatsApp, tweeting (or posting on X), and binge-watching YouTube. It’s all part of our interconnected world, and whether we like it or not, it’s here to stay! But with social media being such a big part of our daily routine, it also plays a huge role in our mental health.
These days, many influencers, content creators and artists openly discuss mental health and well-being on their platforms. But the big question is: Can these online spaces actually help prevent something as serious as suicide?
Suicide is a significant global health issue, with over 700.000 lives lost every year, according to the World Health Organization. Each of these tragedies has a ripple effect, impacting families, friends, and entire communities.
So, where does social media fit into suicide prevention? In a world where platforms like Instagram and TikTok make communication fast and interactive, they can be more than just places for selfies and dance challenges. Social media can be powerful tools for sharing crisis hotlines, educating the public, and spreading stories of hope and resilience.
Changing the narrative around suicide starts with shifting how we think and talk about it –from a place of stigma and silence to one of openness, understanding, and support. And that’s exactly where social media can make a real difference.
The bright side of social media
As I said before, social media can be a powerful tool for connecting with people who might otherwise feel isolated, especially when it comes to mental health and suicide prevention. These platforms reach millions, including young people who might not engage with traditional support systems. They provide a space where individuals can express their thoughts and feelings anonymously, share their struggles, and connect with others who understand –all without fear of judgment.
This sense of community is invaluable. Social media allows people to both give and receive support, creating a safe space where they can be open about their experiences. It’s a place where someone can find a kind word, a helpful resource, or even a lifeline in times of crisis. When these platforms are well used, it is possible to build a positive, supportive identity in ways that might not feel as easy offline.
One of the biggest advantages of social media is its ability to transcend borders and connect with individuals, no matter where they are. This means reaching people who might otherwise be left out –like marginalized groups, or anyone struggling in silence. They could also feel that someone who is physically far away, is feeling the same way and can understand or help them. Plus, social media can deliver supportive messages and crisis interventions quickly and at a relatively low cost. For example, seeing that your favorite singer also suffers anxiety and depression, could make you realize that you’re not alone and that everyone can reach out for help.
Another advantage is that social media helps raise awareness and break the stigma about suicide prevention. Not only by posting informative content, or statistics, but also by starting open and honest conversations, sharing different experiences and encouraging other people to talk about it. For example, organizations such as the International Association for Suicide Prevention usually uses social media platforms to raise awareness about suicide prevention –they created hashtags, used Twitter emojis, and even created a Podcast!
But… are there any challenges regarding social media?
Anonymity can make it easier for people to share their feelings, but it also makes it tough for mental health professionals to assess risks or provide immediate help when someone is in serious trouble.
Another downside of anonymity is the negativity that can sometimes come with it –like unkind or aggressive comments and even misinformation. Not everyone on social media is kind, and it’s easy to stumble across content that can be hurtful or misleading.
That’s why it’s so important to remember that not everything we see online is true, and we need to protect our mental space. Curate your feed, block the trolls, and always prioritize your well-being over what strangers or haters might say. Social media can be a great tool, but it’s up to us to use in ways that support our mental health!
So, what’s the conclusion of all this?
Social media is a double-edged sword –it can be a source of connection and support, but it also comes with challenges. The key is to use it in ways that positively impact our mental health. Platforms like TikTok and Instagram are not just for entertainment, they are communication tools, and they can also be spaces for genuine support and education. For example, TikTok has introduced in-app resources for users searching for terms related to suicide or self-harm, directing them to helplines and mental health support. Moreover, influencers and celebrities have also used their massive platforms to speak openly about their struggles, encouraging millions to feel less alone.
At the same time, it’s important to stay aware of the negative aspects, like cyberbullying, misinformation, and sometimes toxic environments of comment sections. Being mindful of the content we consume and the spaces we engage in can help us protect our mental well-being.
Social media isn’t going away, and yes it’s not perfect, but it has the potential to change lives by offering connection, support, information, and hope. By focusing on their supportive and positive aspects –and when to step back when things get overwhelming– we can use social media as a tool for good. Each small action can help you, or someone that’s following you, to change the narrative about suicide prevention and create a more open and understanding world. So, let’s continue to use our online spaces not just to connect, but to uplift, educate, and support each other!
ReferencesEach Mind Matters. (2017). How to use social media for suicide prevention. Retrieved from https://emmresourcecenter.org/system/files/2017-05/Social-Media-Guide.pdf
International Association for Suicide Prevention. (n.d.). About. Retrieved from https://www.iasp.info/WSPD/about/
International Association for Suicide Prevention. (n.d.). IASP podcast. Retrieved from https://www.iasp.info/podcast/
Papyrus - Prevention of Young Suicide. (n.d.). The power of online in suicide prevention. Retrieved from https://www.papyrus-uk.org/the-power-of-online/