Facebook can be the perfect social platform for people to compare themselves to others.
According to a new study in the Journal of Social and Clinical Psychology, comparison can trigger depressive symptoms in some people. Alison Myers, a mental health counselor, points out that most people only contribute posts that make them look good. Because of it, some people think everyone else is living a perfect life – except them.
“That could lead a decrease in mood, lower self-esteem, and (cause) feelings of envy,” Myers said.
Some people are more vulnerable. “Research right now is coming out showing that really it’s people who already have depressive symptoms, where Facebook is causing them to have an increase in those symptoms,” Myers said.
She told 8 On Your Side people shouldn’t quit Facebook. Instead, limit time spent on the social network by looking at it once a day for only a few minutes at a time. And put the emphasis on your own posts.
“Posting positive things about your life can actually boost your own self esteem … So really, avoid looking at other people’s posts,” Myers said.
If you find yourself spending a lot of time on Facebook feeling bad, Myers suggests reaching out for help from a professional because you could be suffering from depression.
