Social media has become increasingly popular in today’s society. Young people turn to social media to keep themselves entertained, show a highlight reel of their own life, and to snoop on the lives of others. It can quickly become addicting. Social media has both pros and cons. Teens who suffer from social anxiety may find social media to be a dark all-consuming place. Once technology use has exceeded beyond what is considered “normal” this may turn into a teen tech addiction. Signs of this include the following:

• Depression
• Dishonesty
• Feelings of guilt
• Anxiety
• Feelings of Euphoria when using the Computer
• Inability to Prioritize or Keep Schedules
• Isolation
• No Sense of Time
• Defensiveness
• Avoidance of school work
• Agitation
• Mood Swings
• Fear
• Loneliness
• Boredom with Routine Tasks
• Procrastination
• Unable to unplug from device for any period of time
• Withdrawal from social events to stay behind the screen

Teen Tech Addiction and Social Anxiety: The Connection

Social media can be directly linked to the onset of social anxiety or the increase of symptoms. Both positive and negative correlations have been found between the use of social networking sites and mental wellness. A lot of this depends on how social media sites are used. Here are a few considerations regarding the link between the two:

1. People with social anxiety disorder are more likely to passively use Facebook (looking at other people’s profiles) and less likely to engage in content production (posting, commenting, etc.).
2. Individuals who engage in anxious rumination may be more at risk for their social anxiety becoming worse when they use Facebook passively. For example, sitting at home all day reading other people’s Facebook posts, not posting anything of your own, not commenting on anyone else’s status, your social anxiety may worsen.
3. People with social anxiety do not appear to be more likely to post negative content on social networking sites. However, whether one posts positive or negative materials relates to how others respond to you. Positive updates are related to increased “likes” while negative material results in lower positive feedback.

Solstice East can help

Solstice East is a residential treatment center for young women ages 14-18 struggling with behavior and emotional issues such as those that can stem from peer-relationship struggles. This program focuses on helping young women heal, recover, and integrate healthy habits into their lives. Students will learn to build healthy relationships, cope with emotions, and effectively communicate. Solstice East gives young women the skills and confidence they need to lead happy and healthy lives. We can help your family today!

Article Source; https://solsticeeast.com/blog/the-truth-behind-teen-tech-addiction/

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