Impacts of Selfies on Teen's Health and Developing Healthy Habits

Impact of Teen Selfies on Health and Cultivating Healthy Rituals

Social media has become an integral part of many teenagers' lives, with 95% of American teens aged 13-17 using it regularly. However, this digital world can pose various risks to their mental health and safety.

Cyberbullying, a form of bullying that occurs online, is one such risk. It can take place on social media platforms and may increase a teenager's risk of developing mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation.

Another concern is the use of edited photos on social media. Viewing these images can cause teens to have negative feelings and insecurities about their own appearance. A 2022 review found that 1 in 3 girls ages 8-18 enhance their photos to appear more attractive before posting them online. This trend of distorting reality can contribute to unrealistic beauty standards.

Trends and challenges on social media often revolve around taking selfies, some of which encourage dangerous behaviors. For instance, the "Picture me drinking" trend encourages posts incorporating alcohol.

It's important to remember that once an image is online, it's challenging to control who sees it, copies it, or shares it. This potential exposure can lead to risks such as cyberbullying or unwanted attention from strangers.

However, not all news about social media use among teenagers is negative. When teens post selfies and receive "likes," they often feel social acceptance and higher levels of confidence.

To help teenagers develop healthier habits around social media, they can limit their screen time, develop protective strategies, share information cautiously, promote authenticity, seek help, protect from cyberbullying, and set online boundaries together with parents or caregivers.

If you or someone you know is experiencing negative effects from social media use or selfies, resources are available. The 988 Lifeline, Crisis Text Line, Befrienders Worldwide, calling 911 or your local emergency services number, and seeking help from a trusted adult are all options for those in crisis and considering suicide or self-harm.

Parents and caregivers can also play a crucial role in helping teens stay safe while using social media and posting selfies. This can be achieved by actively listening, discussing the dangers of social media, setting online boundaries together, and leading by example.

Adolescents ages 10-19 are more susceptible to peer pressure and opinions, which may push them into harmful situations they would otherwise avoid. A study examined 68 studies and identified depression, anxiety, addiction, sleep disturbances, dietary and nutritional issues, behavioral challenges, sexual content exposure, distorted body image perceptions, instances of cyberbullying, decreased physical activity, vision issues, headaches, and dental cavities as potential mental health consequences of social media use among adolescents.

In conclusion, while social media offers opportunities for connection and self-expression, it's essential for teenagers and their caregivers to be aware of its potential risks and take steps to ensure their mental health and safety.