As a millennial therapist, I’ve seen firsthand how social media is shaping our daily lives—and not always for the better. While the digital world connects us in exciting ways (hello, endless puppy videos), it also bombards us with a constant flow of information. For teens, young adults, and parents alike, this information overload isn’t just inconvenient—it’s leading to a serious uptick in anxiety.
A Case of Too Much Information
Let’s get straight to it: our brains simply weren’t designed for the relentless stream of content we consume today. Back in the day, people lived their lives with a more local focus. They weren’t inundated with global news the second it happened. I mean, they had to wait for the morning newspaper. Imagine! While modern technology has its benefits (no one’s arguing to give up Wi-Fi), it’s also worth acknowledging that the past had something we’ve lost: mental space.
Today, social media delivers information to us faster than we can blink, with algorithms that seem designed to trigger our stress response. One second you’re mindlessly scrolling, and the next, you’re caught in a flood of news about disasters, political tensions, and social upheavals, all of which your brain interprets as immediate threats.
According to a study in the Journal of Social and Clinical Psychology, this constant exposure to stressful stimuli directly contributes to heightened levels of anxiety, especially among young adults. Our brains, which evolved to respond to immediate, local dangers (think: running from a saber-toothed tiger), are now being triggered by crises happening on the other side of the planet—events that we’re powerless to control. Yet, thanks to social media, they feel as if they’re happening in our own backyards.
** If you have no control over the sitaution, but you spend a considerable amount of time thinking about it—- it will always produce anxiety.** (that little piece of info. is free :) )
The Perks of Being Selectively Uninformed
Now, I’m not saying we should all revert to the days of carrier pigeons and handwritten letters, but there’s something to be said for not knowing everything that’s happening, everywhere, all the time. There was a time when people were more focused on their immediate environment—what was happening in their communities, families, and friendships—and they didn’t feel the need to stay updated on global events at all hours of the day.
Studies suggest that being a little uninformed might actually be a mental health strategy. A study in Psychological Science highlights that reducing exposure to negative news can have a positive impact on mental well-being, with lower levels of anxiety and stress as a result. In a time where we can know everything, all the time, it’s no surprise that our mental health may improve when we choose to know a little less.
Why?
But why is our reaction to social media so intense? The answer lies in the mismatch between our ancient brains and modern technology. Our brains evolved to handle stress in short bursts—the type of stress you could run away from or deal with quickly. Social media, on the other hand, keeps us in a perpetual state of alert. Each notification or headline triggers the brain’s fight-or-flight response, and over time, this constant state of readiness can lead to chronic anxiety.
Studies in Neurobiology of Stress suggest that prolonged exposure to stressful information can keep cortisol levels elevated for long periods, which in turn leads to anxiety, insomnia, and even depression. Our brains weren’t built to process this endless stream of information—especially not on a global scale—and as a result, many of us feel overwhelmed.
What Can We Do About It?
Here’s the good news: we have the power to manage our social media consumption and, in turn, our mental health. While going completely off the grid isn’t realistic for most of us (especially since TikTok dances aren’t going to watch themselves), there are ways to set boundaries and regain control.
Limit your social media use: Set specific times of day to check your feeds, and don’t be afraid to log off outside of those times. The world will still turn, I promise.
Curate your content: Be selective about what and who you follow. If certain accounts increase your stress levels, it’s okay to hit the unfollow button. You could also create a FINSTA ( fake instagram account where you reset the algorithm to be things that bring you joy and happiness.)
Take breaks: Periodic social media detoxes—whether for a day, a weekend, or even a week—can give your brain the space it needs to relax and recharge.
Stay grounded in your own life: Focus on what’s happening in your world, not the endless stream of updates happening elsewhere. Cultivate mindfulness in the here and now.
While social media isn’t going anywhere, that doesn’t mean our anxiety levels have to skyrocket along with it. By setting boundaries and learning to step back from the constant flow of information, we can protect our mental health. Remember, our brains weren’t built for this endless barrage of content, and it’s perfectly okay to unplug and give them a break.
In the end, while the world keeps spinning with or without our constant attention, our mental well-being needs deliberate care. So, the next time you feel that familiar pang of anxiety while scrolling through your feed, remember: it’s not you, it’s your brain—just doing its best to handle a world it wasn’t designed for.
