How can you keep your Generation Z children away from social media?

Social media: It’s like a friend who’s always there, but there are times when it feels more like a toxic ex. For Generation Z (those born between 1995 and 2010), social media has become an integral part of their lives; it shaped their self-perception, relationships, and overall well-being. Social media has tremendous value when used correctly. It can be a great way to connect with friends, share experiences and stay updated. However, constant exposure to curated content and online comparisons can lead to unintended consequences that can contribute to a variety of mental health issues.

Luke Coutinho, a Goa-based integrative lifestyle expert, agrees. “Social media has a huge impact on the emotional and mental health of Generation Z. It leads to comparisons, feelings of inadequacy, and body image issues. Constant distraction due to excessive content also causes overstimulation. Additionally, it shortens attention spans, encourages detachment from real relationships, and inhibits the ability to make meaningful offline connections,” he says, adding: “The desire for instant gratification can also distort the perception of reality, leaving many people feeling lost and purposeless and experiencing social anxiety. ”

Dubai-based emotional intelligence and etiquette coach Taylor Elizabeth Perramond says: “With constant exposure to social media, GenZ struggles with low self-esteem, difficulties forming authentic relationships, fear of missing out (FOMO), cyberbullying, and feelings of isolation due to constant online connection. challenges can impact their mental health, self-confidence and overall happiness.”

Psychiatrist, mental health expert, educator and content creator from Meerut, Dr. Rashi Agarwal feels that children who are addicted to social media are usually in their teenage years and are going through a lot of hormonal changes. “These children are aware of terms such as body shaming and bullying, and are in a period where they will explore their sexuality. But many of them are confused about these issues,” says Agarwal. Agarwal thinks this confusion worsens their feelings of being lost or different from other people. “This leaves them unable to express their true feelings and set boundaries with themselves. parents and other adults,” he notes.

moving towards a solution

So what can we do? Experts say that finding a solution to this problem is not about abandoning social media completely, but about using it carefully. While the challenges posed by social media are undeniable, it is important to remember that they are not insurmountable. “The first step, of course, is to reduce the time spent on social media and use it more consciously. Intention determines the purpose and you know exactly what you want to achieve by opening the app, otherwise you will be doomed. Then set your intention. Ask yourself: Why am I logging in? What do I want to get out of this? How much time do I want to spend on this?,” advises Coutinho.

He also recommends that young people be encouraged to participate in activities that foster genuine connections, such as face-to-face conversations, outdoor adventures and creative pursuits. Before advocating a social media detox, Coutinho says it can serve as a powerful antidote to the negative impact of excessive screen time. “Depending on the degree of addiction, the first few days may be difficult, but after that you feel at peace and more connected to the people around you, including yourself. “Your mind feels less stimulated, there is a feeling of calm and your sleep improves,” he says about the benefits of digital detox.

Agarwal said, “Press the ‘delete friend’ or ‘unfollow’ button!” says Agarwal. If you feel judged or misunderstood by people, it’s best to cut the cord, he adds. “Another tip is to turn off notifications for some of them. Finally, create device-free times, especially during meals, studying, or spending time with family,” Agarwal advises.

Recommended treatments

Practicing these simple habits can help break social media addiction, but experts recommend therapies to regain control for those who still can’t get over it.

Emotional intelligence coaching is a treatment that can be offered to Generation Z. Perramond explains: “Such coaching focuses on empowering individuals to understand and regulate their emotions, improve communication skills, build resilience and develop positive relationships. Techniques such as mindfulness practices, cognitive-behavioral strategies, self-assessment exercises and setting limits on social media use, Z “It may be useful in solving certain problems faced by this generation.”

Coutinho recommends life coaching sessions that help set solid goals and routines to work on. She coaches people on healthy habits, reshaping mindsets and perceptions, and educates them on the impact of social media on a cellular level. Agarwal recommends family therapy as it helps both parents and children set boundaries, understand the differences between generations, and find solutions to bridge the gap and move with the times. “In some cases, patients also need medications that are started after some evaluation and basic blood work,” he adds.

Shweta Dravid is a self-confessed explorer who writes on travel, health, wellness, mindfulness and the facts of life.