Social comparison involves comparing ourselves to others in order to understand and evaluate our own abilities, opinions, and emotions. It is a common way that people try to make sense of their own experiences and situations. Comparing ourselves to others can be helpful in terms of figuring out how we are doing, but it can also lead to negative thoughts and actions if it is not done in a healthy way.
Social media has been extremely popular these days. It brings opportunities for connections and communications, but it has also become a place where excessive social comparison happens. People often present a highly curated version of their lives on social media, which can lead to a distorted view of reality and an unrealistic comparison with one’s own life. Studies have shown that excessive usage of social media and the tendency to engage in social comparison can possibly lead to mental health issues.
Effects of Social Comparison on Social Media
It is important to be aware of the potential negative consequences of social comparison and to use caution when engaging in this behavior. There are several ways in which social comparison can have negative effects on an individual.
Increased Risk of Depression
Social media often shows a glamorized version of other people’s lives, which creates a distorted view of reality and leads to unrealistic expectations. Seeing their perfect lives makes you feel inadequate and worthless. When you compare your life to theirs, you cannot help but be sad that you are not as successful or as privileged as them.
Excessive use of social media and the constant comparison with others can also lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation, as they can take away from real-life social connections and interactions. Instead of interacting with your friends, you see them as competitors.
Negative Body Image
The sad thing about social comparison on social media is that it sets an unrealistic standard of beauty. You realize that it is impossible for you to conform to their expectations. Your face and body are not good enough. When you look at yourself, you only see your flaws. You start to hate yourself, get depressed and angry that you do not look a certain way.
So many people resort to changing their physical appearance to make themselves feel better. They want to be the standard of beauty. They do not realize that there are people out there who would do anything just to fit the description of beauty on social media.
Eating Disorder
People with poor body image often struggle with eating disorders. You desire to be thin and sexy without thinking that what you are doing is hurting and damaging you. Skipping meals, throwing up, over exercising, and excessive dieting are never good or healthy.
Eating disorders can have serious physical and mental consequences. Prioritize your health, and do not let social media dictate what is beautiful and not. Learn to love yourself more than your vanity. Social media is unforgiving, and no matter how hard you try, you and the rest of the people in the world will never fit into its standards.
Cyberbullying
One of the biggest downsides of social media is cyberbullying. People now are so invested in showcasing their glamorous lifestyles on social media. Some of them have to pretend just to earn thousands of views and likes. But not all people on social media are good. They use social media to prey on innocent people and hurt them. They criticize their looks and compare them to more beautiful people. Cyberbullies take advantage of those who have personal issues and attack, threaten, harass, and intimidate them.
Bullying on social media can have serious consequences, as it can cause emotional distress and damage to one’s reputation. It can also lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness. In extreme cases, it can even contribute to self-harm or suicide.
Getting Help and Support
Social media itself is not necessarily the cause of negative outcomes such as low self-esteem, poor body image, and vulnerability to mental illness. However, these issues can make people more likely to seek validation and community through social media, which can have both positive and negative effects. While positive interactions and self-expression through social media can be beneficial, predatory advertisements, idealized lives presented by influencers, and cyberbullying can lead to social comparison and mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, disordered eating, and suicidal thoughts. It is important to be aware of these potential negative effects and to use social media mindfully.
If you or anyone important to you is struggling with depression and anxiety due to social comparison on social media, visit Mindshift Psychological Services. Do not hesitate to ask for help and guidance to manage your depression. It may be difficult at first, but through therapy, you will learn to see your value. Contact us at (714) 584-9700 to schedule an appointment.
