We live in a social media world. It's addictive and kids are using it more and more in their daily lives. What are the effects social media has on your child's mental health?
We've all taken that perfect selfie. As parents, the social media movement can be complicated and confusing. It is one of the most popular forms of communication among our kids these days. "I go on Twitter a lot and Facebook and Snapchat," said Preble High School Junior, Natalie Hohol.
Getting that 100th like on a picture or reading a flattering comment can provide instant gratification. "It makes me so happy to remember all those memories," said Hohol.
According to a childhood behavioral expert, that type of happiness is fleeting. "I would consider that a moment of euphoria. True connection is what brings us joy," said Lisa Schubring, a licensed marriage and family therapist from Prevea.
Social media does offer a way for kids to socialize, network and connect with friends and their community. "From a support standpoint, it can be really good," said Schubring. It can enhance multitasking and communication skills.
Do the pros outweigh the risks?
The phenomenon known as "impostor syndrome" is becoming more and more common among the younger generation. "What really is real life seems sad, mundane, boring or not good enough. People seek out this constant need for exposure," said Schubring.
The constant connectivity and lack of downtime is having detrimental effects on our youth. "You feel like people don't really like you that much," said Hohol. "There's an increase in anxiety, an increase in depression and an increase in just general low self esteem," said Schubring.
Sadly, experts say it's become easier to be cruel to others. Cyber-bullying is becoming a serious issue across the nation. "You're not saying them to someone's face and people are getting to school and they're hurt and they're angry," said Schubring. Without face to face communication, therapists say kids don't feel remorse for the things they write.
"You never see it in person. Someone will say something in a text but they'll never say it in person," said Hohol. "There's no cool off period anymore," said Schubring.
There's another disturbing trend raising concern. "You hang out with your friends, and they're always on their phone," said Hohol. Heads down and fingers flying, kids are spending less time actually hanging out together.
"We are losing the ability to communicate. Sometimes in relationships we need to have difficult conversations. That's a skill and those skills are being lost," said Schubring. "How are you supposed to make memories like this?" said Hohol. The reality is social media is everywhere we look.
So what's the answer? How can parents preserve the mental health of their children? Do you keep kids away from it? Do you trust they will do the right thing? Do you find a way to monitor it?
Schools are being proactive teaching students the right way to use social media and how to avoid making mistakes. Here's the advice from experts for parents. "No matter how trustworthy your child is it is important to keep a close eye on them because kids get themselves into trouble and they don't know how to get out of it," said Schubring.
Most experts agree it starts with the parent to set a good example.
--Know your child's passwords
--Be friends with them on their social media accounts
--Establish technology-free zones or hours in the home
--Help children to get involved in activities that don't involve social media
The rest is up to you and your family.
If you feel like your child is suffering from anxiety or depression, you can ask your family doctor or child's pediatrician for help.
