As more people use smartphones, the use of social media has also continued to grow. These days, teenagers aren’t the only ones connecting with their friends online. Adults are sharing photos, updating friends about their lives, and reconnecting with old friends through social media. If you struggle with addiction, you might wonder whether social media is impacting your use of drugs and alcohol. It’s easy to become influenced by other people. When that happens, you could be putting yourself and your health on the line. However, at BrightView, we know the impact that social media can have on addiction, and know that where you go for help can make all the difference.
What Is the Link Between Social Media and Addiction?
The effects of what you see on social media can impact your ability and willingness to use drugs or alcohol. For example, a stay-at-home mom sees friends enjoying a glass of wine after spending the day with the kids. They talk about how good it feels to get that break in after such a long day. The problem is, routine alcohol consumption, even just a glass of wine a day, is dangerous. Celebrities, social media influencers, and even just friends and family often post pictures of themselves enjoying alcohol or doing drugs. They might look happy and fulfilled. Many times, they look like they are living their best life. You want to have that same experience. You do what they do in the hopes of creating that same experience. The problem is, social media is very one-sided. You only see what people want you to see. In nearly all cases, people are not providing authentic information about what they are really doing or experiencing. It’s not only misleading but dangerous to encourage others to use as you are.
Social Media Can Impact Your Mental Health
When it comes to social media and addiction, it’s also important to recognize its impact on mental health. It’s overwhelming to see people engaging in fun activities and living their best life while you’re struggling daily. It can cause a variety of problems to develop, including:
- Depression
- High stress
- Anxiety
- Self-doubt
- Problems with self-worth
Social media can then lead to a higher risk of using substances to manage these experiences. Many people who have an addiction also struggle with underlying mental health problems. It can be very worrisome – and nearly impossible to improve – those conditions without the help you need. Take a closer look at what’s really happening to you. Could your use of social media be influencing your mental health in any way?
Do You See Yourself Struggling with Social Media and Addiction?
It’s not uncommon to find yourself simply unable to handle social media and addiction or addiction on its own. That’s why it is so important for you to take action today. If you are using drugs or alcohol, you may have an addiction that requires professional help. At BrightView, we offer programs that let you continue on with your daily life by living at home but coming in for the treatment you need. Learn more about our programs:
- Outpatient treatment programs
- Medication-assisted treatment program
- Addiction recovery treatment options
- Counseling and therapy for addiction
- Peer recovery supporters
What’s most important for you today is realizing that there is help available to you to overcome your addiction. It doesn’t matter what caused it or what fuels it, as long as you get the help you need.
Reach Out for Help from BrightView
Social media is just one component of your fight for health. When it comes to social media and addiction, recognize that you have the ability to control both of these factors. You just have to take action. To do that, call BrightView. Allow our team of professionals to guide you every step of the way. Reach us at 833-510-4357 today.
