- Question
What are the pros and cons of social medias impact on mental health during the coronavirus pandemic?
The coronavirus pandemic has led to significant lifestyle changes and isolation measures across the world. Social media has provided a platform for people to stay connected, communicate with friends and family, and engage with the news and current affairs. However, there is a lot of research and concern for the role of social media in the increasing mental health rates, particularly amongst teenagers. Also, the coronavirus ‘news fatigue’ which has led to many disengaging from social media during the pandemic. So, what are the pros and cons of social medias role in the pandemic regarding mental health?
Pros of social media on mental health during pandemic
The pandemic has been a time of great societal change in regards to health and civil upheaval. Social media has become the go-to method for sharing information and connecting with others.
Cons of social media on mental health during pandemic
People turn to social media for news consumption and human interaction, but the unreliable nature of social platforms means that news can easily be distorted, and the negative impacts of social media can be exacerbated when it is your only outlet.