Mental Health Awareness Week 2023 - The Effects of Social Media
In a world where digital connections are as important as the physical, we need to take a closer look at how social media is impacting our mental health. It's a tool that can bring us together, but it can also be a source of anxiety and stress. During this week, we aim to raise awareness about the complex relationship between social media and mental health and explore ways to navigate the digital world while keeping our mental well-being in check.
What week is Mental Health Awareness Week?
Mental Health Awareness Week is this week, from the 15th to the 21st of May 2023.
You can find out more about the week here: https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/
Anxiety is the theme of Mental Health Awareness Week 2023
Mental Health Awareness Week 2023 is shining a light on anxiety, something that all of us experience at some point. Sometimes, it can become more than a passing worry and turn into a real problem. Lots of things can cause anxiety, like exams, problems in relationships, starting or losing a job, big life changes, or even just struggling to pay for the basics like food and heating. But it's not all doom and gloom - we can learn ways to deal with it.
One major thing that can cause anxiety these days is social media. It's everywhere, and while it can be great for keeping in touch with friends and sharing your life, it can also make us feel anxious. Seeing everyone's 'perfect' lives can make us feel like we're not good enough, and the constant pressure to be online and up-to-date can be really stressful. That's why this year, we're focusing not just on what anxiety is, but also on how to keep it under control, including tips for managing social media use.
At the same time, we're pushing for change. We want to make sure that mental health, including the impact of social media on it, is taken seriously by everyone - from your friends to the government. We're all in this together, and by understanding and managing our anxiety, we can make sure that we're looking after our mental health just as much as our physical health.
Facts about anxiety disorders
Commonality: Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health conditions. In the UK, it's estimated that roughly 1 in 6 people experience some form of 'neurotic health problem', which includes conditions such as generalised anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and phobias.
Symptoms: The symptoms of anxiety disorders can be both physical and psychological. Physical symptoms can include things like a racing heartbeat, sweating, and headaches. Psychological symptoms might include feeling restless, a sense of dread, or constantly worrying.
Types of Anxiety Disorders: There are several types of anxiety disorders, including Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, Specific Phobias, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Each has its own specific symptoms and triggers.
Causes: Anxiety disorders can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, brain chemistry, personality, and life events. Sometimes, it's a combination of these. For example, you might be more likely to develop an anxiety disorder if you have a certain personality type and you experience a traumatic event.
Treatments: There are effective treatments available for anxiety disorders. These can include psychological therapies, such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), and sometimes medication. It's also important to take care of your physical health, as regular exercise, a healthy diet, and enough sleep can all help manage anxiety symptoms.
How can my organisation get involved in Mental Health Awareness Week?
Mental Health Awareness Week 2023 is the perfect time for businesses to get involved and show support for better mental health. It's a chance to focus on mental health, to confront stigma, and explore ways to create an environment that helps prevent mental health problems and nurture well-being.
Businesses can download a variety of resources from the Mental Health Foundation's website, which is designed to support and promote Mental Health Awareness Week. These can help educate employees about mental health and stimulate important discussions in the workplace.
One of the key symbols of mental health awareness is the green ribbon. Businesses can order these from the Mental Health Foundation to distribute among employees, showing their commitment to supporting mental health. It's a simple but powerful gesture that can help raise awareness.
Additionally, businesses can participate in 'Wear it Green Day 2023'. On this day, employees are encouraged to wear green, symbolising their support for mental health awareness. Companies can organise their own 'Wear it Green Day' events, helping to raise funds for mental health initiatives.
Getting involved in Mental Health Awareness Week is a great way for businesses to show they care about their employee's mental health and are committed to creating a supportive work environment.
Social Media and mental health
Social media has become an integral part of our daily lives, offering us a way to connect with others, share our experiences, and access information. However, it's also been linked to a number of mental health issues, particularly among young people.
Studies have shown that excessive use of social media can lead to feelings of anxiety, depression, loneliness, and poor body image. One reason for this is the pressure to constantly stay connected and updated, which can create a sense of urgency and stress. Seeing others' highlight reels can also lead to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem, as we compare our own lives to the often idealised versions presented online.
Here are a few key facts about social media and mental health:
Research suggests that people who spend more than two hours a day on social networking sites are more likely to report psychological distress.
'Cyberbullying' on social media platforms can lead to anxiety, depression, and even suicidal thoughts.
Social media can create a 'fear of missing out' (FOMO), which can contribute to feelings of anxiety and depression.
Using social media late at night can lead to sleep problems, which are associated with a range of mental health issues.
On the positive side, social media can also provide a platform for people to share their experiences, seek support, and raise awareness about mental health issues.
While social media can have negative impacts on mental health, it's important to remember that it's how we use it that matters. By being mindful of our social media use, setting boundaries, and taking regular digital detoxes, we can protect our mental health while still enjoying the benefits of staying connected.
5 Tips for managing anxiety around Social Media:
Set Boundaries: Limit the amount of time you spend on social media each day. This could mean setting specific 'social media hours', or using apps that remind you to take a break after a certain period of use.
Mindful Scrolling: Be aware of how you're feeling as you're scrolling through your feed. If you notice that certain posts or people make you feel anxious or upset, it might be time to unfollow or mute them.
Reality Check: Remember that what you see on social media isn't always a reflection of reality. Most people only post their 'highlights', which can make it seem like they're always happy, successful, and worry-free.
Digital Detox: Consider taking regular 'digital detoxes', where you switch off from social media and all digital devices for a set period. This could be an hour before bed, one day a week, or a whole weekend - whatever works best for you.
Reach Out: If you're feeling anxious or overwhelmed, don't hesitate to reach out to someone you trust about how you're feeling. This could be a friend, family member, or a mental health professional. You're not alone, and there are people who want to help.
To find out more about Mental Health Awareness Week, please visit https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/
