Editorial

By Morgan Legg

In modern times, it is impossible to make it through the day without using some form of technology, causing it to become a lifeline as well as a burden for many people. As technology continues to advance and create more reliance on it, the debate on its impact on mental health becomes louder.

According to a study from The National Library of Medicine, “Current research suggests that it may not be the technology use itself, but rather how actively or passively users engage with technology, that facilitates or hinders nonverbal decoding skill.”

With this in mind, social media provides access to multiple tools, which has a positive impact on society and users that choose to use these tools.

These tools include but aren’t limited to self-help apps, online therapy and much more. With access to these tools, people are more connected to helpful resources that they otherwise wouldn’t have access to without technology in their grasp.

According to the American Psychological Association, “Digital mental health tools that utilize evidence-based interventions can be particularly useful at providing mental health education.”

On the flip side, people’s use of technology or how others use technology against a person can be detrimental to their wellbeing.

According to the Cyberbullying Research Center, 30% of teens have experienced cyberbullying at some point in their lives, which lowers self esteem and overall well being.

In short, technology is a powerful tool that opens up avenues for people to seek help or connections as well as avenues that worsen a person’s overall mental health. It is up to social media users to do their best to make a positive impact with their social media impact to lessen any strength the bad side of social media has.