Social Media...How many likes?

Is there an ideal number of  "friends" or connections individuals can have on social media that can improve their mental health?...



Social media has its advantages and disadvantages. For some, seeing the number of followers increase may serve as a temporary boost in self-esteem and dopamine. Seeing the amount of "likes" your picture receives, or the number of views your video has collected can serve to brighten one's day, especially when someone you're interested in has left a "like" or comment on your post...but how long does that feeling last? How many of these "friends" are genuine, healthy connections. I think everyone enjoys positive feedback on topics shared, but many calculate the amount of those likes into their view of their self-worth, which can in turn affect their mental health.



Do social networking sites have any responsibility in promoting mental health in their users? If so, how might they go about doing so?

I think social networking sites should be aware of the negative effects that social media may have on one's health. I notice on TV shows that include heavy topics such as self-harm, and substance abuse, information on helpful websites, and phone numbers are displayed before commercials or at the end of the program.. I think sites could easily include information like this. Many of these resources are free and can assist anyone, no matter if they have ten thousand followers, or ten. 


No one has to be alone.





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