Social Media’s Impact: A Personal Reflection on Digital Life

After battling a severe flu last month, Janine LeGal found herself reevaluating her relationship with social media. The illness forced her to take a break from her usual online activities, bringing to light both the positives and negatives of digital engagement.

The Shift in Perspective

During her recovery, LeGal noticed that her time on social media, once a daily ritual filled with scrolling, learning, and connecting, had diminished. Initially, the decision stemmed from a need to conserve energy, but as she began to recover, she was struck by the overwhelming negativity that dominated her feeds. Reports of wars, political corruption, and fake news filled her timeline, leaving her feeling disheartened.

Among the distressing content, she observed a troubling trend on social media platforms. Posts demanding that friends unfriend anyone with differing opinions prompted her to express her own dismay. “If I unfriended everyone who offended me, I’d have no friends left,” she wrote. Ironically, her candid post led to a significant number of unfriending, highlighting the divisiveness often perpetuated online.

The Dangers of Digital Engagement

During a recent appointment, a young service provider echoed LeGal’s sentiments, suggesting society was better off before social media. This comment resonated with her, as both recognized that the time spent online diminishes face-to-face interactions, a reality that many may overlook. “People had time for their neighbours. We had time for each other then,” he remarked.

LeGal reflected on the addictive nature of social media, acknowledging its potential to harm mental health. While the platforms can facilitate positive initiatives—such as campaigns to help those in need and reconnecting with old friends—there is a darker side. The ease of sharing opinions can lead to backlash, especially when emotions run high or when substances impair judgment. With one impulsive post, one can risk their job or relationships.

Her experience with Amnesty International has taught her the value of free speech, yet she understands it can also be a double-edged sword. The internet is awash with questionable content, from hate speech to misinformation, which complicates the landscape of free expression. Despite these challenges, the ability to access vast amounts of information quickly remains a significant advantage of the digital age.

Finding Balance in a Digital World

LeGal’s recent illness provided an unexpected opportunity for reflection. She recognized the importance of balancing her online presence with real-world engagement. “I’m glad the flu took me away from the screen for a while,” she said, noting that it reminded her to reassess how much of her time and energy she dedicates to social media.

As she navigates this complex digital landscape, LeGal emphasizes the need for mindful engagement. Social media can indeed offer incredible benefits, but it also poses significant risks. Ultimately, she believes the answer lies in finding a middle ground—one that allows for connection without sacrificing personal well-being or genuine interactions.

In a rapidly evolving digital world, LeGal’s reflections serve as a reminder to consider the impact of social media on daily life. The challenge remains: how to harness the power of these platforms while mitigating their potential harms.