What is Social Media Addiction?

Cover designed by Eva Shirey

Over the last decade, checking and scrolling through social media has become an increasingly popular activity. Many people feel as though they have become addicted to social networking sites and engage in excessive use of these sites. Psychologists estimate that as many as 5% to 10% (33,100,000) of Americans and 6% (468,000,000) of the world meet the criteria for social media addiction. Especially with quarantine caused by COVID-19, these numbers have rose.

Social media addiction is a behavioral addiction, defined by being overly concerned about social media. This is driven by an uncontrollable urge to log on or use social media, devoting so much time to social media to which it impairs other important life areas. A few reasons that could cause this is lack of friends, feeling of fulfillment, and fear of missing out. Multiple studies have found a strong link between heavy social media use and an increased risk for depression, anxiety, and loneliness. Social media may promote negative thoughts about your appearance, thoughts, and life in general.

Addictive social media use looks very similar to any other substance use addictions including mood swings, tolerance, withdrawal symptoms, relapse, and conflict. When people receive a notification, the brain releases dopamine, the same chemical people feel when falling in love. Because of this, people can easily become addicted. Deciding to stop is difficult and may include experiencing withdrawal-like symptoms.

After getting used to or expecting to receive this type of attention through social media, they can become dependent on it. This makes it difficult to limit or end technology and social media use. The ability to lie and manipulate through social media reveals the attachment some have and how it impacts their mental health.