Cassidy's Creative Corner: The Effects of the Internet

The Internet has changed our everyday lives - from the way we communicate, to how we entertain ourselves, to our healthcare regimen. Social media allows you to share your experiences and information, (whether it is true or not), and has changed the way we interact with our family and friends.

Unlike the past, talking to someone now is just a click away, and face-to-face interactions have significantly dropped. There are many positive effects to this. Social media has made it easy to connect with our family members and friends. It has the power to strengthen relationships with others and bring people together in ways that were unimaginable in the past. However, it comes with a price. Social media also promotes negative experiences. It changes the thoughts you have about your appearance and your life. 

With the Internet, anything you could possibly think of is within your reach. The way we consume and view entertainment has been changed forever. Our attention spans have dropped below that of a goldfish. “National Centre for Biotechnology Information claimed that the average human attention span has dropped from 12 seconds in 2000 to 8 seconds in 2013 (just one second below that of a goldfish)."

Numerous studies show the link between social media and mental health. Social media has the ability to fuel serious mental illnesses such as depression and anxiety. You can develop fear of missing out, isolation, and problems with your appearance. Despite the downsides, social media does have positive effects on your mental health. Through the internet, you can seek emotional support, express creativity, and create a sense of self. 

All-in-all, just like everything else, the Internet has its own pros and cons. Whether it be obtaining valuable information, reaching out to others, or worsening symptoms of illnesses such as depression. The Internet has changed the world forever, and you probably can’t imagine life without it. 

Sources: 

The goldfish effect: https://www.mytutor.co.uk/blog/parents/educational-advice/attention-span-social-media/

Social Media and Mental Health:
https://www.helpguide.org/articles/mental-health/social-media-and-mental-health.htm