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In Recovery: Should I Break From Social Media?
Whatever your age or background, the chances that you are involved in some aspect of social media are fairly high. The reality is that social media has transformed our way of life and the manner in which we interact with each other.
It is estimated that there are approximately 1.65 billion active mobile social media accounts globally, with about 1 million new social accounts being added daily [1]. Many individuals have multiple accounts, with much interaction occurring on devices like cell phones and tablets.
The Impact of Social Media on Eating Disorder Recovery
While many people might not make an association between eating disorders and social media use, it is important to understand the possible influences and connections. Eating disorders are psychiatric illnesses with strong biological influences, so while something like social media cannot be “blamed” for the cause of eating disorders, it important to look at how it can potentially affect those who might be struggling or susceptible to an eating disorder.
One aspect of social media to recognize is how use of these platforms can slowly develop into an addictive-type behavior. Individuals with eating disorders may have certain character and personality traits that make them susceptible to addictive type behaviors, like obsessiveness or compulsivity.
For some people, the remission of one type of behavior may lead to another. In this case, the cessation of eating disorder behaviors may lead to addictive behaviors, and this can look differently for all individuals. Social media can easily divert attention and focus from the things needed to maintain recovery efforts.
Be Aware of Warning Signs
Other aspects to be mindful of include how you might feel when scrolling through your feeds. For many, excessive time spent online can lead to feelings of depression and anxiety, exacerbate existing mood disorders, or lower self-esteem. All of these things can be triggering to someone in recovery from an eating disorder.
It is important to approach social media use mindfully. For some people, taking a break from social media from time to time can help reset focus, especially when in recovery. It is helpful to know that taking breaks from social media do not have to be permanent thing.
You can always make your account inactive and come back when you feel like things are more balanced in your life. If you are struggling to maintain a balance with your social media use, be sure to talk with someone you trust.
Community Discussion – Share Your Thoughts Here!
What do you think are warning signs that it might be necessary to take a break from social media?
About the Author: Crystal is a Masters-level Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) with a specialty focus in eating disorders, maternal/child health and wellness, and intuitive eating. Combining clinical experience with a love of social media and writing, Crystal serves as the Director of Content and Social Media for Eating Disorder Hope/Addiction Hope, where her passion to help others find recovery and healing is integrated into each part of her work.
As a Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor, Crystal has dedicated her career to helping others establish a healthy relationship with food and body through her work with EDH/AH and nutrition private practice.
References:
[1]: Global Digital Statshot, http://wearesocial.com/uk/special-reports/global-statshot-august-2015The opinions and views of our guest contributors are shared to provide a broad perspective of eating disorders. These are not necessarily the views of Eating Disorder Hope, but an effort to offer discussion of various issues by different concerned individuals.
We at Eating Disorder Hope understand that eating disorders result from a combination of environmental and genetic factors. If you or a loved one are suffering from an eating disorder, please know that there is hope for you, and seek immediate professional help.
Last Updated & Reviewed By: Jacquelyn Ekern, MS, LPC on November 6, 2016
Published on EatingDisorderHope.com
