By: Markie Bryant

Social media and mental health are more connected than ever in today’s digital world. While social media can be a great way to stay connected, it also has the power to increase anxiety, depression, and body image issues. Recent discussions on X (formerly Twitter) highlight growing concerns over social media addiction, cyberbullying, and self-comparison, which are leading many individuals to seek professional support.

At Inneractions IOP, we recognize that digital wellness is an essential part of overall mental health. Our Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) offers in-person and virtual therapy sessions designed to help individuals set boundaries with social media, foster authentic relationships, and regain control over their mental well-being.

In this blog, we’ll cover:

• The psychological effects of social media, backed by research.
• Practical strategies for maintaining digital wellness.
• How Inneractions IOP supports those struggling with social media and mental health.

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The Hidden Dangers of Social Media and Mental Health

While social media can offer a sense of community, it also presents risks that negatively impact mental health. Research has found that excessive social media use is linked to:

1. Increased Anxiety

Studies show that constantly checking social media notifications triggers heightened anxiety levels. A Journal of Social and Clinical Psychology study found that limiting social media use to 30 minutes per day significantly reduced anxiety symptoms ¹.

2. Depression & Loneliness

A study by JAMA Psychiatry found that young adults who spend more than three hours a day on social media are more likely to experience depressive symptoms ². Seeing curated online lives can make individuals feel inadequate, leading to low self-worth and social isolation.

3. Body Image Issues & Low Self-Esteem

Social media often presents unrealistic beauty standards through filters, edited photos, and influencer culture. According to The Mental Health Foundation, one in three teenagers reported feeling worse about their body after using social media³.

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Practical Strategies for Digital Wellness

To improve social media and mental health, consider integrating digital wellness strategies into your daily routine:

1. Set Time Limits

Use tools like iOS/Android screen time settings, Freedom, or RescueTime to track and limit daily social media use.

2. Curate a Healthy Feed

Unfollow accounts that promote toxic comparison and instead follow mental health advocates, wellness coaches, and body-positive influencers.

3. Take Regular Digital Detoxes

Consider “social media-free weekends” or set specific hours each day where you disconnect from all social platforms.

4. Prioritize Real-World Activities

Replace excessive scrolling with offline hobbies such as reading, exercising, journaling, or spending time with loved ones.

5. Use Social Media Intentionally

Before opening an app, ask yourself:

• “Am I using this to connect or just scrolling out of habit?”
• “Is this content helping my mental well-being?”

Mindfulness is key to making social media a tool for connection rather than a source of stress.

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How Inneractions IOP Supports Social Media and Mental Health

At Inneractions IOP, we understand the deep connection between social media and mental health. Our program offers structured therapy, digital wellness coaching, and group support to help individuals regain control over their online habits.

1. Virtual IOP: Support from Anywhere

Our Virtual IOP allows individuals to access professional therapy from the comfort of their home while still receiving expert support on managing social media use.

2. Group Therapy & Digital Wellness Coaching

At Inneractions IOP, we integrate group therapy sessions that address:

• Social media addiction and how to regain control.
• Setting boundaries with online interactions.
• Developing healthier relationships with technology.

3. Replacing Social Media With Authentic Connections

Social media gives the illusion of connection but often leaves people feeling isolated. At Inneractions, we help clients:
✅ Build real-world friendships in a supportive environment.
✅ Engage in meaningful conversations that go beyond surface-level interactions.
✅ Develop a long-term plan for balancing social media and mental health.

4. Success Stories: Overcoming Social Media Anxiety

Many individuals enter Inneractions IOP feeling trapped by their online lives. Through structured therapy, digital wellness training, and personalized mental health support, they’ve:
🌱 Regained control over their screen time.
🌱 Reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression.
🌱 Built confidence beyond the digital world.
🌿 Built confidence beyond the digital world.

FAQs About Social Media & Mental Health

Final Thoughts: Take Control of Your Digital Wellness in 2025

Social media isn’t going anywhere, but its impact on mental health is something we can control. By adopting mindful social media habits, setting boundaries, and seeking support, you can cultivate a healthier digital lifestyle.

If social media is negatively affecting your mental health, Inneractions IOP is here to help. Whether through in-person therapy or Virtual IOP, we provide the tools you need to navigate digital wellness and reclaim your mental health.

Ready to take the first step? Contact Inneractions today and regain control over your mental well-being!

1. American Psychological Association. (2023). The benefits of limiting social media use. Retrieved from https://www.apa.org/monitor/2023/11/benefits-limiting-social-media
2. JAMA Network. (2019). Association of social media use with mental health outcomes in adolescents. JAMA Psychiatry. Retrieved from https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamapsychiatry/fullarticle/2749480
3. Mental Health Foundation. (n.d.). Body image in childhood: Executive summary. Retrieved from https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/explore-mental-health/articles/body-image-report-executive-summary/body-image-childhood