Social media can have both positive and negative effects on mental health, says psychotherapist
Social media can be a means of connecting someone with resources, and other people, and also provide support, but it can also lead to unnecessary comparisons and feelings of not being good enough, the head of Wellbeing Services at the Richmond Founda
Social media can be a means of connecting someone with resources, and other people, and also provide support, but it can also lead to unnecessary comparisons and feelings of not being good enough, the head of Wellbeing Services at the Richmond Foundation, Lynn Sammut, told The Malta Independent on Sunday. She continued that social media can also lead to feelings of isolation and anxiety, and added that it is important to use social media mindfully and limit screen time.
Sammut, who is a Gestalt psychotherapist, noted that social media has been carefully crafted to have systems which give users more of what they tend to stop and interact with, in order to increase user interaction. She said that this engagement can be achieved depending on what catches our interest, regardless of whether it impacts us positively or negatively. This carefully crafted system of garnering engagement is capable of making us want more and more content, she commented, to a point where "we end up chronically online, not really living our lives, and then feeling stuck and helpless about it".
Having said that, the psychotherapist remarked that social media can also simultaneously help us de-stress and "switch off when we need a break", and so we make use of social media for this purpose and potentially risk getting caught in a cycle. Acknowledging this, she said that this is why it is important for social media to be used wisely and in a limited manner. She made reference to how phones may have built-in digital wellbeing features which assist users in monitoring and limiting their screen time.
"If we're careful, with the right customisation of social media feeds, social media can help educate, empower and help connect us with others."
On the eve of World Mental Health Day, to be celebrated on 10 October, Richmond Foundation's head of Wellbeing Services spoke to this media house about mental health and depression in Malta and was asked what the main causes of such issues may be in the country and whether it differs from other areas.
She replied that while there is not much data to show if there are variables in the causes of depression in Malta in comparison to other countries, many people who have reached out to Richmond spoke of financial difficulties, the stigma surrounding mental health and the attitudes toward it often make people feel unable to openly discuss their personal struggles. She added that people have also mentioned the limited quiet and open spaces available.
On that matter, the discussion then moved to exploring how much our environmental surroundings can influence our mental health and what kind of environment would be ideal to support good mental health.
The psychotherapist said that our environment has a profound impact on people's mental health, and continued that studies have shown that spending time in nature can reduce stress, improve mood and boost creativity. On the other hand, she said that living in crowded, noisy or polluted areas can contribute to feelings of anxiety and depression. "We need to be in nature, go by the sea, walk along the quiet parts of our coast or do some gardening, even if it is in little plant pots at home. Movement is important to release the pent-up tension we have in our body and mind."
Having said that, she remarked that while environmental factors play a significant role, it is important to note that they are not the sole determinants of mental health. She continued that personal factors such as genetics, lifestyle and relationships also contribute to mental health and that what might be helpful and nourishing may vary from one person to the other.
The question was posed of what people can or should do when they are dealing with depression or suicidal thoughts.
Sammut replied that when someone is feeling depressed or is battling thoughts of suicide, doing anything at all about it can prove to be very challenging in itself. She continued that a characteristic of depression is that it can make you struggle intensely with motivation and that if someone is going through this or is supporting someone going through this, then the best thing that they can do is to reach out and talk about it with someone. "A friend or family member, who they may feel comfortable talking to, or there are many free services ready to help which are easily accessible, with people who are supportive."
She commented that very often, people struggle with depression due to difficult experiences they went through, such as loss, the end of relationships, illness or other significant life events. She added that she encourages people to focus on taking time for themselves and investing in taking care of themselves through small acts of self-care.
The psychotherapist said that people experience depression in different ways and that some often lose touch with others when they are struggling, "they can stop doing things they used to love doing and struggle intensely with their concentration".
"Reaching out may be the hardest thing to do, as many do not want to be a burden to others," she said. Sammut continued that if someone is worried that a person in their lives may be struggling, then they should look out for changes in that person's behaviour. She said that she always encourages anyone to speak to whomever they are worried about and have a "kind, non-judgemental and honest conversation". She added that it is also very important to connect them to the help they may need.
When asked what people who notice concerning behaviour should do to help, Sammut replied that the most important thing is to take them seriously. She continued that people should not be afraid to ask directly how someone is feeling and let them know that you are approachable and ready to offer support. "It is important that we do not try to dismiss what they are feeling by telling them it will pass and to allow them to share their struggles."
Although some people may be concerned about a perceived overreaction; making sure that it is made clear that you are interested in someone's well-being and are willing to help, is an important step in letting that person know that they can reach out if needed. The more this is made clear on a wider, societal level, the less stigma there is around mental health.
Following this, she said that it would be appropriate to connect them with professional support. If there is concern that the person in question may be in immediate danger, then there should be no hesitation about seeking professional help by calling services such as 112 in cases of emergency and immediate risk to life, the government mental helpline at 1579 or the Richmond Foundation helpline at 1770, which will be detailed at the end of this article. Sammut added that a psychiatrist is always available at the Mater Dei emergency department in case of crisis.
President Myriam Spiteri Debono recently spoke about the importance of discussing mental health and suicide in order to erase the stigma around such discussions, and Sammut was asked why such a stance is important.
Sammut replied that breaking the silence and shame around mental health is essential, as people are more likely to seek help and support when they feel comfortable talking about their struggles. She added that it also fosters a more compassionate and understanding society.
One of the most important benefits of increased investment in mental health, she continued, is a reduction in the stigma around it. "When leaders publicly support mental health initiatives, it helps to normalise conversation about mental health and challenges negative stereotypes." She remarked that this can encourage individuals to seek help and support without fear of judgment, which can be a significant barrier in this matter.
She said that early intervention is crucial in addressing mental health issues and that investing in research and prevention programmes can help to identify and address mental health problems early on, which would prevent them from escalating and causing more significant harm. She remarked that such initiatives could potentially save lives. She also said that expanding mental health facilities and supporting community-based programmes can result in individuals having access to the care they may need, regardless of their location or financial situation.
"Investing in mental health can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals and families affected by mental illness. By addressing mental health issues, governments can reduce suffering, promote social inclusion and create a more compassionate and supportive society."
Sammut concluded by saying that there are many things people can do to promote their well-being. She said that many struggle as they feel that they lack connection with others and do not know where to go to find it. "We encourage people to join groups where they have the same interests, and to find a community."
She continued that finding places which "help you feel calm and help your mind find some quiet away from the daily stresses of life" is important as well. "Apart from this, the very basics for good mental well-being include sleeping well, eating a balanced diet and staying active."
IF YOU NEED HELP
Some mental health services available in Malta
- Call 1770, a Richmond Foundation service, where you can reach trained psychology officers who will listen and offer you guidance
- Chat for help: OLLI chat and Kellimni.com both offer a space for those seeking psychological support through an online chatting platform
- Call 1579, a 24-hour national telephone helpline, providing immediate and free emotional support, advice and practical guidance for anyone in need
- Call 112: This is the general emergency number in Malta. In any life-threatening or serious emergency situation, including mental health crises, you can call this number for immediate assistance
- Call Appoġġ Supportline 179: Appoġġ is a national agency that provides a range of services, including helpline support for those in crisis. Their helpline, 179, is available 24/7 and offers support for individuals facing various challenges, including mental health issues
- In case of a severe mental health crisis, individuals may be directed to or seek help through the psychiatric 24/7 emergency service, based at the Accident and Emergency Department at Mater Dei Hospital. One can self-refer or else obtain a referral through their local doctor
Related
Share this page
Guest Posts by Easy Branches
