A new study by researchers at Texas State University has found that those suffering from depression may want to limit their social media activity.
The study, which was published in the Journal of Applied Biobehavioral Research, shows that negative social media behaviors are linked to major depressive disorder (MDD) in millennials.
The study analyzed 504 millennials who actively used social media sites like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and/or Snapchat. The individuals who met the criteria for MDD scored higher on the Social Media Addiction scale and were more likely to compare themselves to others who were "better off" than they were.
Regarding interactions on social media, the study found that those with MDD were less likely to post pictures of themselves with other peopled and also reported having fewer followers. Additionally, subjects with MDD indicated that they would be more disturbed by being tagged in unflattering pictures of themselves.
"While this study highlights social media behaviors that are associated with major depression, it is important to recognize that social media use can offer many positive benefits, including fostering social support,” said co-author Krista Howard, of the Department of Psychology. “The key is for individuals to develop an awareness of how they currently use social media and to determine what changes could be made in their social media use to reduce the behaviors associated with psychological distress. Some changes could include reducing the time spent on social media, unfollowing individuals or groups that cause distress, or limiting online social comparisons.”
The Department of Psychology's Anthony Robinson was the lead author of the study. Other team members included Aaron Bonnette and Natalie Ceballos of the Department of Psychology; Stephanie Dailey of the Department of Communication Studies; Yongmei Lu of the Department of Geography; and Tom Grimes of the School of Journalism and Mass Communications.
For more information about the study, click here.