In today’s world, social media is inescapable. It has completely altered our communication, allowing us to connect with people all over the world. When put to good use, social media does have several significant benefits. However, with the vital role it plays in our lives, is there a connection between social media and drug abuse? Social media has unique effects on substance abuse. Fortunately, Oceanfront Recovery can help.
Is There A Link Between Social Media And Drug Abuse?
While social media does not directly cause substance abuse, it can, unfortunately, increase the likelihood of you using substances. In the present social media age, you are more likely to see substance abuse subtly portrayed positively. Content on various social media sites tends to glorify drug use, making it appear normal and harmless. The content you see and interact with on social media sites could affect how you lead our lives, ultimately leading to drug addiction.
Social Media And Poor Mental Health
Due to the presence of peer pressure and widespread cases of cyber-bullying, constant social media use can have negative effects on mental health. Such adverse experiences could lead to depression and anxiety. Several people suffering from such mood disorders often self medicate, turning to substances as a means of coping.
On top of that, the images people cultivate on social media can be misleading, with many showcasing a life that appears perfect. These images can make it seem as if their lives are better than yours, which can lead to anxiety and depression, regularly comparing yourself to others, and having feelings of inadequacy. You might end up becoming more self-conscious about your appearance, negatively affecting your real-life relationships.
You could also quickly develop an addiction to social media itself, getting too hung up on the number of likes, retweets, shares, and followers you have. This could result in isolation, further worsening feelings of depression. The effect heavy social media use has on mental health could make you more susceptible to drug addiction, with such experiences having lasting impacts on the rest of your life.
Does Social Media Affect Recovery?
The connection between social media and drug abuse also extends to recovery. Considering the vulnerable state people are in during recovery, social media can create an environment that disrupts their healthy lifestyle. This could make it difficult for them to maintain their sobriety. Some of the hindrances social media provides to recovery are such as:
- Becoming a new addiction, leading to you spending more time online and neglecting real-life relationships and responsibilities.
- Several social media sites have advertisements for certain drugs that tend to normalize substance abuse and could trigger cravings.
- Access to drugs is more convenient as more dealers use several available sites to sell substances 24/7.
- The impact it has on mental health creates even more hindrances to your recovery.
- Recovery also entails healing your mind, and heavy social media use could make you lose hours of much-needed sleep.
Possible Positive Impacts Of Social Media On Addiction
When used the right way and moderately, social media can have several positive impacts on the fight against drug abuse. Social media makes it possible to connect with communities that help with your recovery. It also enables organizations to raise awareness of substance abuse, sharing resources regarding addiction and treatment. Some of the treatment options shared are such as:
- Anxiety treatment programs
- Depression treatment programs
- Drug and alcohol detox programs
- Sober living homes
- Intensive outpatient program
- Residential programs
If you or a loved one needs treatment, reach out for help today. At Oceanfront Recovery, our aim is centered on providing you with the care you require. Our staff will arm you with tools geared to helping you manage social media and drug abuse recovery. Call Oceanfront Recovery at 877.279.1777 to hear more about our programs.
