From December 2025, the new Australian law, the Online Safety Amendment, will prevent children under 16 from having social media accounts. Aimed at protecting young people’s mental health, this big step highlights the growing concerns surrounding how social media use affects wellbeing, especially among younger Australians.
For many of us, social media has become part of our daily lives. While it can be a source of community and support, it can also leave us feeling drained and overwhelmed. So, how exactly does social media influence our mental health, and what can we do to use it more mindfully?
The Double-Edged Sword of Social Media
Social media has its fair share of positives when used in moderation. It allows us to stay in touch with loved ones, access a wealth of knowledge and share ideas instantly. Online support groups also help people facing health challenges, new parents, or those who have relocated to feel less alone.
On the flip side, research has shown that high social media usage is linked to higher rates of depression, anxiety, and loneliness. Comparing your life to others’ highlight reels, constant exposure to negative news, or cyberbullying can really toll on your emotional and mental wellbeing.
The Effects of Social Media on Your Mental Health
Here’s a closer look at the ways social media can both support and put a strain on your mental health:
Positive Effects
Connection and Belonging
Social media facilitates social connection, helping people stay in touch even when distance or circumstances make physical catch-ups difficult. Talking to a friend or a loved one can really lift your spirits, especially during challenging times or periods of isolation.
Access to Support and Awareness
Whether you’re managing a chronic illness or looking for like-minded people who share the same hobby, online communities provide emotional support and companionship. Social media has also made mental health conversations more visible, encouraging people to speak up and find reliable information and resources.
Source of Inspiration and Motivation
With the right mindset, social media can be a great source of motivation. Seeing others share their fitness progress, wellness journeys, or creative projects can inspire healthy habits and creativity. Following content creators that spark inspiration can act as a springboard for your own goals, whether that’s increasing your fitness level or creating your own content.
Negative Effects
Comparison and Low Self-Esteem
When you’re constantly seeing carefully chosen, heavily edited photos and posts, it is easy to feel as though you don’t measure up. This comparison can chip away at self-esteem and fuel feelings of envy or inadequacy, especially if you forget that most people only share their best moments online.
Anxiety and FOMO (Fear of Missing Out)
The pressure to stay up to date or respond instantly can cause unnecessary stress. Checking in on your friends and family’s activities may make you feel that they’re living better lives than you are, or leave you feeling left out. While FOMO isn’t new, social media can amplify it by constantly showing you other people’s highlight reels.
Information Overload and Burnout
Social media exposes you to a constant stream of news, opinions and updates. This can be overwhelming and emotionally exhausting, especially when witnessing distressing, tragic news being circulated online.
Signs Social Media Might be Affecting Your Mental Health
There’s no fixed amount of time spent on social media that determines unhealthy social media use. Rather, the focus is on how it impacts your mood and other aspects of your life. Indicators that you need to re-evaluate your relationship with social media include:
● Feeling anxious, irritated, or emotionally low after scrolling.
● Constantly comparing yourself to others.
● Spending hours daily online and neglecting sleep.
● Feeling uneasy when you can’t check your phone.
● Feeling distracted at work or school due to social media obligations.
● Prioritising apps over real-life activities.
Simple Steps to Build a Healthier Relationship with Social Media
Recognising the signs is the first step towards fostering a healthier relationship with social media. Here are some intentional ways that build good social media habits:
Set Boundaries
Schedule phone-free times throughout the day. For example, during meals, family time, and the last 30–60 minutes before bed.
Curate Your Feed
Unfollow or mute accounts that make you feel pressured or bad about yourself. Instead, engage with content that inspires, educates, and brings you joy.
Be Purposeful
Before you open an app, ask yourself what your intention is. Is it to connect, to learn, or to pass the time? This helps you catch yourself from scrolling through endless feeds.
Mind Your Sleep
Turn on “Do Not Disturb” mode or keep your phone out of reach for at least 30 minutes before winding down for bed. Notifications and scrolling can stimulate you, making it harder to relax.
Replace Scrolling with Other Activities
Whether it’s using that time for a hobby, going for a walk, or spending time with someone in person, these meaningful activity swaps help support your mental wellbeing.
Seek Professional Help
If social media regularly leaves you sad, anxious, or affects your daily life, speaking with a psychologist can help. A professional can guide you with strategies to restore balance.
Start Your Journey to Better Mental Health Today
While there’s no doubt that social media has its drawbacks, it can bring multiple benefits when used intentionally and mindfully. By setting healthy boundaries, curating your feed, and being purposeful with your scrolling, you can keep your digital habits in check.
If your mental health has taken a dip or you’re facing digital fatigue, our dedicated team at Coolaroo Clinic is here to help. Book an appointment with our resident psychologist today for support in cultivating a healthier, more balanced relationship with social media.