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How does social media affect our confidence and self-esteem?

Lisbeth Low

Social media has a huge impact on our confidence and self-esteem, both positively and negatively. On one hand, social media provides a platform for individuals to express themselves and showcase their talents, achievements, and experiences. This can be empowering and boost one's self-confidence. When we receive compliments and positive feedback from our followers, it makes us feel good about ourselves and increases our self-esteem.

On the other hand, social media can also be detrimental to our confidence and self-esteem. Comparison is the thief of joy, and social media is a breeding ground for comparison. We are constantly bombarded with images of perfect bodies, perfect relationships, perfect homes, and perfect lives. This can lead to feelings of inadequacy, insecurity, and low self-esteem. When we see our friends and acquaintances posting highlight reels of their lives, it can make us question our own accomplishments and leave us feeling inadequate.

Moreover, cyberbullying is a major issue on social media, and can have a devastating effect on one's confidence and self-esteem. When we are subjected to negative comments, criticism, and bullying from strangers or even people we know, it can damage our self-esteem and make us feel unworthy, unlovable, and inferior. In extreme cases, cyberbullying can lead to depression, anxiety, and even suicide.

Therefore, it is important for us to be mindful of our social media usage and its impact on our confidence and self-esteem. We should use social media as a tool to connect with others, share our experiences, and support one another, rather than as a means of comparison, validation, and approval. We should also be aware of the negative effects of cyberbullying and report any instances of harassment or abuse.

In conclusion, social media has both positive and negative effects on our confidence and self-esteem. While it can empower us and boost our self-confidence, it can also make us feel inadequate, insecure, and inferior. It is up to us to use social media in a responsible and healthy manner, and to support and uplift one another rather than tear each other down.