These days, checking your phone first thing in the morning feels as normal as brushing your teeth.
I do it too - before I even get out of bed, I’m scrolling through Instagram, TikTok, or X.
It feels harmless. But the truth is, social media is quietly changing us, the way we think, speak, and even how we feel about ourselves.
We now speak differently because of social media. People use short forms like “LOL,” “WYD,” or “I’m dead” not just in messages, but in real-life conversations.
Emojis have become part of how we express emotions. Our tone of voice, sense of humor, and how we share stories are often copied from viral content. It’s like we’ve developed a new kind of language, one that’s shaped by the internet.
I’ve noticed that I lose focus easily. I used to enjoy reading books, but now I find it hard to sit still for more than a few pages. I thought it was just me, but studies back it up.
According to the American Psychological Association, too much time on social media can shorten attention spans and increase anxiety.
Our brains get used to quick rewards, likes, views, and comments - and that makes it harder to concentrate on things that take time, like studying or building real friendships.
It also affects our emotions. A friend of mine once said she felt useless after seeing someone her age buy a house. She’s still job-hunting and felt like a failure just because of one post.
Even when we know people are only showing the best parts of their lives, we still compare. And that comparison can hurt deeply.
Social media can also create a fake version of emotions. People smile through pain just to look “okay” online. Others overshare deeply personal things in hopes of getting attention or support.
It’s hard to tell what’s real anymore. This can lead to emotional confusion, exhaustion, and even a loss of identity.
But let’s be fair, social media isn’t all bad. It has helped people learn new skills, speak out, and feel connected.
A 2022 Pew Research study found that many young people say social media helps them stay in touch with friends and express themselves better.
I’ve seen people use their platforms to raise money for medical needs, speak out against injustice, and start small businesses. That’s the beautiful side of it.
Still, the question remains: are we using social media, or is it using us?
It’s time to take back control. We need to scroll with purpose, not out of habit. Think before you post, reflect before you compare, and always ask: Is this helping me or harming me?
Because staying online is easy. Staying true to yourself in the middle of all that noise - that’s the real challenge.
And in the end, it’s not just about staying connected, it’s about not losing who you are along the way.
