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Social Media Addiction

Social media addiction is nothing but a behavioral addiction diagnosed as overuse of social networking sites, an uncontrollable drive to log on to it, and spending more no—daily hours in social media, affecting other aspects of life.
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Life can be challenging, and there are moments when it feels like the weight of the world is on your shoulders. But you don't have to face your struggles all by yourself. We are ready to provide the help and guidance you need to navigate through difficult times.
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Somya Singh
5+ years of experience
Speaks: Hindi, English
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Sheetal choudhary
Speaks: English, Hindi
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Akanksha Singh
3+ years of experience
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Anshika
2+ years of experience
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Tanya Kataria
2+ years of experience
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CBTs for Social Media Addiction
Guided Meditations for Social Media Addiction
Articles and Readings for Social Media Addiction
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Triggered: How to know your emotional triggers better?
Triggered explores the impact of emotional triggers and how they affect our thoughts, actions, and relationships. Through an in-depth look at what it means to be “emotionally triggered,” it reveals how personal experiences, beliefs, and past traumas can lead to intense responses.
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Dealing with Career Regret: How to Move Forward When You Feel Stuck
Career regret can leave us questioning past choices and feeling trapped in unfulfilling paths. How do we move forward when we feel like we’ve missed crucial opportunities or chosen the wrong direction? Discover the keys to understanding and transforming regret into growth, purpose, and renewed passion for the journey ahead.
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The Pressure to Stay Positive: Toxic Positivity and Its Consequences
The pressure to stay positive can sometimes do more harm than good, leading to emotional exhaustion and inauthentic relationships. Discover the hidden impact of toxic positivity and why embracing both positive and negative emotions is essential for genuine well-being.
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Burning the Midnight Oil? Here’s Why Your Brain and Health are Paying the Price
Sleep deprivation doesn’t just make you feel tired—it quietly sabotages your memory, decision-making, and long-term health. From increased risks of heart disease and diabetes to accelerated brain aging, the effects of lost sleep go deeper than you realize. Discover how small changes today can restore your cognitive edge and protect your future well-being.
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A Thousand Cuts: Understanding the Mental Toll of Microaggressions
Microaggressions might seem like minor remarks or actions, but their hidden impact on mental health can be profound and lasting. Whether in a casual conversation, workplace interaction, or medical appointment, these subtle slights often go unnoticed by others while deeply affecting those who experience them. How do these seemingly insignificant moments shape our mental well-being, and what can we do to confront and address their effects? Explore the unseen forces shaping our emotional world.
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Brains on Overdrive: Understanding the Hidden World of Adult ADHD
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Why Success Often Leaves You Feeling Empty
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Understanding Migraines: More Than Just a Headache
Do you think migraines are just bad headaches, or could there be more going on inside your brain? What if the pain you feel is only part of the story? Dive into the hidden complexities of migraines, uncover their real triggers, and explore how therapy might offer relief beyond medication.
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Why You Can’t Overthink Your Way Out of Anxiety
many of us believe that if we just think harder or longer, we’ll find a way out. But what if the very act of overthinking is the real problem? Discover why your mind's constant chatter isn’t helping—and learn the unexpected steps to finally find peace.

FAQs

What is social media addiction?

Social media addiction is characterized by an excessive and compulsive use of social media platforms, leading to negative impacts on daily life, mental health, and overall well-being.

Several recognized organizations, including the American Psychiatric Association (APA) and the World Health Organization (WHO), acknowledge behaviors related to social media addiction, though it is not yet officially classified as a standalone disorder in the DSM-5 or ICD-11. However, these behaviors are often included under broader categories like "internet addiction" or "behavioral addiction."

Evidence includes studies showing that excessive social media use activates the brain's reward system, similar to substance addiction, leading to dopamine release and reinforcing compulsive behavior. Additionally, users may experience withdrawal symptoms, tolerance (needing more time on social media for the same effect), and significant impairment in daily functioning.

Signs include spending excessive time on social media, neglecting personal and professional responsibilities, experiencing anxiety or irritability when not using social media, and using social media as a primary means of coping with stress or loneliness.

Social media addiction can lead to increased anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and feelings of loneliness. It can also contribute to sleep problems, reduced attention span, and increased stress levels.

Yes, it can lead to physical health issues such as eye strain, headaches, poor posture, and a sedentary lifestyle, which can contribute to obesity and other health problems.

Causes can include the need for social validation, fear of missing out (FOMO), escapism, and the pleasure derived from receiving likes, comments, and shares, which reinforces the addictive behavior.

Strategies include setting specific time limits for social media use, turning off notifications, scheduling regular breaks, engaging in offline activities, and using apps that track and limit screen time.

Yes, treatments include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), counseling, and support groups. These approaches can help individuals develop healthier habits and address underlying issues contributing to the addiction.

Mindfulness can increase self-awareness and reduce compulsive behavior. Practices like meditation, deep breathing, and mindful activities can help manage urges and improve focus.

Offer support by encouraging them to seek professional help, suggesting alternative activities, and setting boundaries around social media use together. Being understanding and patient is crucial.

Technology provides easy access to social media platforms and constant exposure to notifications and updates, which can trigger compulsive usage. Algorithms designed to maximize engagement can also contribute to addictive behavior.

Parents can set time limits, monitor usage, encourage offline activities, and have open conversations about the potential risks of excessive social media use. Setting a good example with their own social media habits is also important.

Setting specific goals, such as limiting daily usage or designating social media-free times, can provide structure and motivation to reduce dependence on social media.

If you relapse, don't be discouraged. Identify what triggered the relapse, seek support from friends or a professional, and reaffirm your commitment to healthier social media habits.

Long-term effects can include chronic mental health issues, impaired relationships, reduced productivity, and a persistent cycle of dependency and withdrawal symptoms.

Create a balanced schedule that includes offline activities, set boundaries around social media use, and prioritize face-to-face interactions and hobbies that promote well-being.

Yes, there are online and in-person support groups where individuals can share experiences and strategies for managing social media addiction. Examples include Internet and Technology Addicts Anonymous (ITAA).

Professional help can be found through therapists specializing in behavioral addictions, mental health clinics, and online therapy platforms. Organizations like the American Psychological Association (APA) can provide referrals to qualified professionals.