How social media has ruined minds of today’s youth

Opinion: In today’s digital age, social media become an integral part of our daily lives, particularly shaping the impressionable minds of young individuals.

It has become fixed in their routines, impacting their self-esteem and shaping the way they navigate relationships.

The constant exposure to polished images and aspirational lifestyles on social platforms extends a cycle of comparison and self-doubt among youth, who endeavour to meet the lofty and often unattainable standards set by social media influencers.

Seeking validation through likes and followers has become static in their routines which has taken away the genuine connections and makes relationships feel shallow.

One of the most concerning aspects of social media’s influence on young people is its impact on mental health. Studies consistently show a link between excessive social media use and increased levels of anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem among youth.

When young individuals are exposed to polished images and content that depict others as happier, more successful, or more attractive than themselves, it can generate feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt. This constant comparison has led to heightened anxiety, depressive thoughts, and a diminished sense of self-worth.

The pressure to conform to idealized standards portrayed on social media platforms has significantly harmed young people’s mental well-being, emphasizing the urgent need for healthier digital habits and mindful consumption.

This pressure has sometimes led youth to resort to sharing explicit content, such as nude photos, in a hunt for likes and followers. This troubling trend not only reflects a distorted sense of self-worth but also impacts cultural values and norms, highlighting the profound effects of social media on shaping behaviors and attitudes within our society.

The addictive pull of social media has resulted in youth spending excessive time attached to screens, disrupting their sleep patterns, social interactions, and overall well-being.

The attraction of constant connection and immediate rewards has made it challenging for many young individuals to disconnect and fully engage in real-world experiences.

This overreliance on social media not only hinders their capacity to cultivate meaningful relationships but also restricts their exposure to diverse viewpoints and ideas beyond their online echo chambers. A study conducted by Makerere University in 2023, highlights that young people who spend more than two hours a day on social media are more disposed to experiencing symptoms of trauma, such as anxiety, due to cyberbullying and harassment.

Initiatives like Next Kulture Konnect, launched on April 15th, 2024 by Minister Phiona Nyamutoro, play a crucial role in guiding youth towards a more mindful approach to digital engagement.

By addressing concerns regarding social media’s negative impacts, these initiatives not only promote responsible online behaviour but also empower young individuals economically.

Engaging in entrepreneurship programs and community development projects enables them to influence their talents for innovation, contributing positively to local economies and fostering economic growth. Additionally, utilizing social media as an effective marketing tool can expand their reach and engagement, facilitating their competitiveness in the digital market and enabling the establishment of sustainable businesses.

Let’s empower the youth to navigate the digital landscape mindfully and creatively, fostering economic growth and positive change because they are the architects of tomorrow’s digital world.

The author is Kinkuhaire Caroline, a concerned citizen.

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