- People with delusion-prone disorders, including body image issues and narcissism, are more likely to overuse social media, worsening symptoms
- Online interactions confuse self-perception and trigger or amplify delusional thinking, especially in those already at risk for psychosis
- Most mental health tools ignore social media use, leading to missed diagnoses and ineffective support
- You can protect your mental well-being online by tracking emotional triggers, curating your feed and prioritizing real-world connection
- Cutting back on social media use builds self-awareness and emotional resilience while rewiring habits that support healthy identity
(Mercola)—Whether you’re scrolling through Instagram, liking a friend’s post or watching TikToks, you’re taking in way more than entertainment. Every time you interact online, your brain is processing social feedback without the usual clues like tone of voice or eye contact. This shift changes how you think, feel and see yourself — especially if you’re already dealing with anxiety, depression or identity issues.
But here’s the good news: You can take back control. Science is starting to uncover how social media affects mental health and what you can do about it. The goal is to use social media wisely, so you feel more connected, not more confused. Let’s explore the findings from two powerful studies and turn them into positive steps you can use today.