Negative social media behaviours may be linked to depression
| Jan 11, 2019, 15:19 IST
Researchers have identified the negative social media behaviours linked to major depressive disorder (MDD).
For the study, the team from Texas State University analysed the patterns of 500 millennials who actively use Facebook, Instagram and Snapchat. They also examined the account of 300 Twitter users.
The data helped them analyse five important factors that are associated with MDD.
“While the study highlights social media behaviours that are associated with major depression, it is important to recognise that social media use can offer many positive benefits, including fostering social support,” Krista Howard, from the Texas State University told a news portal.
Adding, “The key is for individuals to develop an awareness of how they currently use social media and to determine what changes could be made in their social media use to reduce the behaviours associated with psychological distress."
“Some changes could include reducing the time spent on social media, unfollowing individuals or groups that cause distress, or limiting online social comparisons,” Howard further explained.
For the study, the team from Texas State University analysed the patterns of 500 millennials who actively use Facebook, Instagram and Snapchat. They also examined the account of 300 Twitter users.
The data helped them analyse five important factors that are associated with MDD.
“While the study highlights social media behaviours that are associated with major depression, it is important to recognise that social media use can offer many positive benefits, including fostering social support,” Krista Howard, from the Texas State University told a news portal.
Adding, “The key is for individuals to develop an awareness of how they currently use social media and to determine what changes could be made in their social media use to reduce the behaviours associated with psychological distress."
“Some changes could include reducing the time spent on social media, unfollowing individuals or groups that cause distress, or limiting online social comparisons,” Howard further explained.