By Keaira McKeithan| HealthWorks Peer Educator 

How much time does social media take out of your day? Studies indicate that 84% of those between 18-29 years report using some type of social media (including Instagram, Snapchat, YouTube, TikTok, Twitter, etc.). Research highlights serious concerns about the contribution of social media to higher rates of depression and anxiety and lower rates of self-esteem among young adults and adolescents (1).  

The good news is there are several strategies and resources you can use to be mindful when supporting your digital wellness. Research supports the idea that nature provides a calmness that can increase well-being and decrease anxiety. 

Tip: Spend at least 30 minutes outdoors every day without using your phone.  

Learn more strategies by visiting the Digital Wellness webpage.  

Sources:  

1. Boumosleh & Jaalouk, 2017; Twenge, 2017; Sha, Sariyska, Riedle, Lachmann & Montag, 2018; Abi-Jaoude, Naylor & Pignatiello, 2020; Pera, 2020) 
2. Richardson M, Cormack A, McRobert L, Underhill R (2016) 30 Days Wild: Development and Evaluation of a Large-Scale Nature Engagement Campaign to Improve Well-Being. PLOS ONE 11(2): e0149777. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0149777