Most teens have cell phones with unlimited availability to the Internet. There are dozens of social media websites and apps that can be downloaded to cell phones. Social media allows a person to accept requests from followers or friends, which provides access to the person’s profile, photos, and posts.
For most people, this is a convenient way to keep in touch with family and friends. However, teens who use social media are susceptible to bullying. When a teen is addicted to social media, his or her homework, real-life social interactions, and self-esteem can be impacted.
Sarah Garwood, MD, wrote an article on teen internet addiction for St. Louis Children’s Hospital. She stated, “While teens might use social networking sites like Facebook to connect with others, spending too much time on the Internet can actually lead to social isolation in some teens. It is also crucial to keep in mind that Internet addiction may be a symptom of an underlying problem like depression.”
Social media addiction is a behavioral disorder that teens develop that causes them to be preoccupied and obsessed with social media. The teen addicted to social media is distracted from everyday life and real-life relationships with family and friends.
The negative effects of teens addicted to social media:
- Easy access to pornography
- Constantly distracted or interrupted
- Popularity contests based on how many “likes” a person gets
- Unrealistic relationships
- Bullying that leads to low self-esteem, anxiety, or depression
- Sending and/or receiving nude selfies
If your teen is unable to enjoy time spent with family or friends without sharing it on social media, he or she may have a social media addiction. A teen should be engaged with family and friends who participate in healthy and positive activities. If your teen spends all his or her free time on social media, he or she may have a social media addiction.
There are options available for teens who experience addiction that is not in the form of substance abuse. Social media addiction can be harmful to your teen’s mental health and development. If your teen has a social media addiction, get help from an addiction specialist who can determine the best treatment for him or her.
Cypress Lake Recovery offers treatment for addiction in a peaceful, remote, oxygen-rich environment. The program encompasses holistic addiction therapy for the mind, body, and soul. The focus is on physical, mental, and emotional well-being by generating the balance of life-enriching treatment, wellness, and healthy, sober, sustainable relationships. Call us to get started: 409-331-2204
