Almost everyone today has a cell phone and access to social media. Having this at our fingertips can feel exciting or sometimes it may feel overwhelming. It's a lot to keep up with. It feels great when people are kind and supportive in their posts and messages. It can also be crushing when others are negative and downright rude. Having mixed feelings about the things you see online is normal.
- Own your feelings but do not immediately publicize them.
If something bothers you when looking at social media, pinpoint the emotions you feel as a result. You can even track your emotions by using a great app that will help you see the impact that things like social media are having on you. Above all, give yourself time to process and pause. Make sure what you post and the comments you make online are well thought out, and not an emotional reaction that you might regret later. - Know that sometimes things you see may make you feel uncomfortable.
Some messages and posts you see might cause big feelings. Social media is a really a big gathering place of many thoughts, experiences, and reactions. Block or unfollow people who bring negativity to your life. Choose to follow and interact with people who will be supportive of you, or who will lift you up. When someone makes comments that you don't agree with, remember that you have choices: you can ignore, message them privately, find a way to refocus the situation, look for positives or build others up. - Give yourself other ways to let your feelings out.
While it is healthy to express yourself, it is not always healthy to let everyone publicly know your thoughts and feelings. Talk to others. Journal your thoughts privately. Reflect on what is causing you to feel the way you are feeling and focus on how it can be coped with or resolved. Give yourself a way to decompress.
Bottom line - Don't be afraid of your feelings but do choose carefully what you want others to know.
You are human. Humans were created with the ability to feel. We are also social beings, so wanting to share your thoughts and feelings is normal. When thinking about what to share on your social media, take your time. Make sure that what you share is well thought out instead of reactive.
Take care of yourself mentally and physically. Be kind to others in person and online. If you need help processing a situation, reach out and talk to someone.
