The New Addiction of the 21st century: Instagram, Facebook and Reels....
The New Addiction of the 21st century: Instagram, Facebook and Reels....
In today's world, where technology has touched every aspect of our lives, social media have emerged as a force that has completely changed the way we entertain and inform. But the growing trend of Instagram, Facebook and reels in particular is now being seen as a 'new addiction'. This addiction has a profound effect on our minds and behavior, just like any drug. Why is it becoming a 'drug'? The format of reels and short videos meets our need for immediate satisfaction.
The science behind it is linked to a hormone called dopamine. Dopamine rush: With each new reel, like or comment, dopamine comes out quickly in our minds that makes us feel happy and rewarded. It's just like alcohol or gambling addiction. Infinite scrolling: Social media platforms are designed to keep one video coming in after another, keeping the craving for "more" and we continue scrolling for hours no matter what time. FOMO: Seeing the 'perfect' lifestyle, travel or accomplishments of others creates a fear that we might miss something and get used to repeatedly checking apps. negative effects on life This 'digital addiction' is not just a waste of time, but it has far-reaching and serious consequences. Impact on mental health Stress and depression: Comparing yourself to the people in the video creates feelings of inferiority and frustration. Lack of concentration: Constantly watching short and fast content reduces our ability to concentrate, making it difficult to focus on study or work. It's called digital dementia. Effects on physical health Sleep problem: Watching reels late at night makes the sleep cycle worse.
Inactivity: prolonged sitting in one place can lead to obesity and other health problems. Social and practical changes. Distance in Relationships: Less focus on real-life communication and relationships, which leads to stress in relationships with family and friends. Deadly stunts: Young people tend to do dangerous and life-threatening ones in their desire for likes and views. loss of productivity. Youths valuable time spent on important questions such as education, skills development or employment is wasted in entertainment and scrolling. ✨ Towards the solution: Digital detox To get out of this 'addiction', it is essential that we adopt self-control and digital detox. Set time limits: Use the screen time feature in your mobile to set times for apps.
Take alternative activities: Read books, play outdoor games or learn some new skills in your free time. Turn off notifications: turn off unnecessary notifications to reduce the habit of repeatedly viewing your phone. Sleeping distance: Keep your mobile away from yourself at least an hour before going to bed. In conclusion, platforms like Instagram, Facebook and Reels can be good means of entertainment but when they turn into 'addiction', they can ruin our health, relationships and future. In the 21st century, we need to recognize this new threat and learn how to balance while living in a digital world. solutions and suggestions on a personal level Set time limits: How many hours a day to use social media Keep screen-free time - Reduce mobile use in the evening, give time for studying. Control notifications - Turn off unnecessary information to reduce the temptation of repeated checking Increase real friendships - face-to-face interactions with friends and family, sports, hobbies If you feel like losing control, seek professional help - psychologist-counseling may be appropriate. at the family/academic level Enhance communication among parents-teachers and children - openly discuss the benefits of social media.
Incorporate Digital Civic Education in Schools and Colleges - How to Use Social Media Safely, Balanced Keep night time-free in the family - for example, off-screen meal times. at the policy-maker/technical level Platforms need to be reviewed from a design point of view - such as focusing on user well-being rather than increasing user engagement. Create government-institutional research, policy, manuals on social media addiction Run awareness campaigns in society - about the dangers and balance of social media use. In a country like India, where the young population is large and smartphone use is growing rapidly, this topic becomes even more important. We need to understand that social media itself is not bad - but uncontrolled, irrational use can bother us. Together, each of us must be alert to this "digital addiction", adopt a balanced use, and not fear asking for help if necessary.
Dr Vijay Garg Retired Principal Educational columnist Eminent Educationist street kour Chand MHR Malout Punjab
