Time spent on social media

Do you experience FOMO?

Many people experience FOMO (fear of missing out). The fear of missing a piece of news, not knowing the latest trend or not knowing what’s being said on a newsgroup can create anxiety. As a result, you’re constantly scanning your social networks and your screen time explodes.

The production of the pleasure hormone in your brain, dopamine, is stimulated, making you want to continue. The goal of social media is to make you spend as much time as possible on their platforms. That’s how they make money.  

Don’t lose track of time

It’s easy to lose track of time online. This can have consequences for your life. People who spend a lot of time in front of screens can :

  • Be more isolated and have difficulty maintaining good relationships with others
  • Have lower self-esteem (because they see content that devalues them)
  • Develop anxiety, impulsivity, aggressiveness, or sleep problems
  • Not move enough, be less healthy, have posture or vision problems
  • Have difficulty concentrating, which can affect academic success

Be more mindful

Now that you know the risks associated with time spent on social media, it’s up to you to take steps to prevent them from taking up too much space in your life. Here are three suggestions of moments when you should be more mindful:

  • During homework time to avoid distracting yourself
  • During meals to encourage interaction with your friends and family
  • Before bed to get better sleep

All users are at risk of feeling addicted to social media. Monitor your online time and schedule screen breaks. You can:

  • Set a screen time limit
  • Limit your number of apps
  • Turn off notifications on your phone or tablet
  • Put your phone away for screen-free moments
  • Participate in activities that bring you real-world joy

All of this will help maintain a healthy relationship with social media. If you find it difficult to do this on your own, don’t hesitate to talk to your parents or a trusted adult. They can support you and guide you to helpful resources.

Resources to help you

Discover organizations that can support you. Their goal is the same: to listen to you and provide advice regarding your problematic situation.