Unpopular Opinion: Social Media Is Not That Social

Social media was supposed to be a platform that connects people and promotes communication. But let's be real, it's not that social anymore. 

It has become a place for people to promote an idealised version of themselves for the sake of admiration, rather than building genuine connections. And don't even get me started on online hate speech and bullying. It's alarming how people feel so brave behind a computer screen, but in a face-to-face interaction, they're as timid as a mouse. This creates an unhealthy environment that puts vulnerable individuals at risk, such as young people and those experiencing mental health issues.

Let's not forget that social media is not the issue here, but rather how it's being used. The algorithms used by these platforms are not designed to benefit users, but rather to maximise profits. This leads to a toxic environment that prioritises engagement and attention over the well-being of users. It's time for these social media giants to be held accountable and work towards creating a healthier online space. Oh and by the way, Tiktok’s CEO doesn’t let his own children use the app, I wonder why 🙃.

Now, let me be clear - social media isn't a bad thing in of itself, and it's okay to indulge in moderation. But we need to be more mindful of how we use social media and the impact it has on our mental health as it has become a double-edged sword. It has the potential to connect people and foster relationships, but it can also be a breeding ground for hate speech and negativity. Let's take responsibility for our online behaviour and demand a safer and healthier online environment.

by Teodora Aldea-Turcu