Social Anxiety behind Excessive Facebook Use Essay Example

feeds and statuses via phone. Many people experience unease when unable to access email or social media accounts, with over half reporting difficulty sleeping due to negative emotions and anxiety after using these platforms.

In a study conducted by O'Keeffe, Gwenn, and Kathleen (802), it was found that chronic stress caused by tension can result in various health issues. Additionally, the research revealed that using Facebook can contribute to social anxiety when meeting someone for the first time. Individuals who view someone's Facebook profile before meeting them in person often experience psychological arousal and anxiety as they constantly compare the person to their online persona. Prior to this study, experts had already determined that reviewing a person's social media profile prior to a meeting could help reduce nervousness, particularly for those with social anxiety. Previewing a profile beforehand offers some familiarity with the individual. Utilizing social media for communication instead of face-to-face interaction is considered a beneficial approach for initiating relationships.

The influence of social media platforms, such as Facebook, on individuals' emotions is significant and has a broad impact. Likewise, weather conditions can also have an impact on someone's mood. According to research, rainy days result in feelings of sadness and negativity, which subsequently leads to the posting of negative comments on social media. This could potentially contribute to heightened social anxiety among people. Conversely, those residing in areas without rain tend to experience more positive emotions and share optimistic updates, resulting in a pleasant and stronger effect. The contradictory effect of Facebook on mood is now widely recognized.

According to Baumeister and Eli, Facebook has been linked to a surprisingly high number of negative mental health

issues. These include low self-esteem, bitterness, and jealousy. Regularly using Facebook is connected to increased depression as people compare their activities and achievements with others. It is important to note that Facebook does not directly cause depression but rather contributes to it when individuals already feel depressed and spend significant time comparing themselves to others.

The study also found that social comparisons with someone more attractive or accessible tend to worsen one's feelings, while comparing oneself with someone who has lower grades tends to improve self-perception. Additionally, excessive Facebook usage increases the likelihood of experiencing symptoms of depression.

Overall, despite the potential negative effects of social media and Facebook, they also bring about positive impacts on individuals. These platforms enable psychologists to monitor patients' mental health, foster connections among people, and promote awareness surrounding social anxiety and mental health concerns. It is essential to recognize the possible downsides and provide support for vulnerable individuals grappling with mental health problems and depression. The key lies in utilizing these websites while maintaining a sense of detachment.