85 percent of children and young people are, according to a DAK Study almost three hours a day on the go in social media. Some slip into dependency. Then the supposed distraction quickly becomes Stress factor and the likening becomes suffering.
Many depressive children and adolescents often withdraw into the virtual world and thus reinforce the Addictive behavior. In any case, social media can pose a health hazard if used incorrectly.
Am I addicted to social media?
Social media as a stress factor
The longer and more often children and young people are online, the higher the risk of addiction. Many teenagers post and link from morning till night. Particularly in stressful situations that are part of everyday life, media are used as Pastime and distraction is used to relieve the psychological tension that comes with school or work, for example.
However, this behaviour also involves Hazards and risks. In the social networks it is of great importance for many young people to cultivate their image in order to get attention and reputation in their circle of friends. For this reason, improper use of Facebook, WhatsAppSnapchat, Instagram and Co. quickly cause stress.
The resulting stress can have a negative effect on many teenagers because of concerns about their body image, Depression, loneliness and fear can be reinforced. In quite a few cases, social networks also support Bullying.
Social Media and Depression
For many Internet users, social networks are ideal for maintaining contacts, checking news and sharing beautiful moments. But the reality often looks different: Social networks often trigger depression, envy and stress. At the Hunt for "I like" clicks and social recognition, many users find themselves under pressure. If the "like success" is not achieved, this quickly leads to frustration, envy and fear of social isolation.
"Facebook was poison to me." An interview on social media and depression
Help and information from experts
You can find a lot of information and help at computersuchthilfe.info.
Tips for parents and relatives
- Take observations and first signs seriously
- address concerns and reservations openly
- Seek help together
- Caution with prohibitions and punishments
- No support of the addiction through e.g. false past life or ignorance
- Digital Detox