Social Media: Understanding the Benefits and the Hidden Risks

Social media is now a major part of everyday life. Whether it is used to stay connected, follow hobbies, learn new information, or simply share moments with family, social media can offer genuine value. However, like any tool, it also carries risks that can affect mental wellbeing, memory, and attention, especially when it is used too often or without awareness.

This blog explores both sides of social media so you can make informed decisions about how to use it in a healthy and balanced way.

The Benefits of Social Media

1. Staying Connected With Loved Ones

For many people, especially seniors, carers, and NDIS participants, social media provides an easy way to stay in touch with friends and family.Video calls, photo-sharing, and messaging help reduce feelings of isolation and strengthen relationships even when distance makes face-to-face visits difficult.

2. Access to Helpful Information

Social media can be a valuable resource for:

• Health education

• Exercise tips

• Community events

• Support groups

• Local services

It allows people to learn quickly and stay informed about topics that matter to them.

3. Building Community and Support

There are countless communities online for every age, interest, and ability level.People can find:

• Hobby groups

• Disability support networks

• Gardening, cooking, and craft communities

• Health and wellness pages

These groups create a sense of belonging, motivation, and connection.

4. A Source of Entertainment and Joy

Social media can be enjoyable when used mindfully.It provides:

• Humour

• Inspiration

• Creative ideas

• Music, art, and stories

It can brighten a day or offer a moment of relaxation between tasks.

The Risks and Hidden Downsides of Social Media

While technology has many advantages, it also comes with challenges that are becoming more common.

1. Shortened Attention Span

Fast-paced content, like short videos, quick updates, or constant scrolling, can encourage the brain to expect rapid stimulation.Over time, this may:

• Reduce patience

• Make reading or tasks feel harder

• Decrease focus

• Make it difficult to stay engaged with longer activities

This effect is noticeable in both younger and older adults when screen use becomes excessive.

2. Weaker Memory and Mental Fatigue

Constant information from posts, ads, and notifications can overwhelm the brain.

This may lead to:

• Forgetfulness

• Difficulty recalling details

• Mental tiredness

• Trouble concentrating

Our brains are not designed to process thousands of pieces of information per day, which is what many social media platforms encourage.

3. Increased Stress or Comparison

Seeing other people’s lives online, often filtered or edited, can create unrealistic expectations.

This may result in:

• Feeling “behind”

• Low mood

• Anxiety

• Pressure to present a perfect life

For many people, especially those experiencing health challenges, these comparisons can be difficult.

4. Reduced Quality of Sleep

Using screens late in the evening, especially for scrolling, can:

• Delay melatonin release

• Make it harder to fall asleep

• Reduce sleep quality

• Increase restless nights

Blue light exposure and mental stimulation both affect the body’s natural wind-down process.

5. Risk of Misinformation

Not all information online is reliable.

Health information shared on social media may be:

• Outdated

• Incorrect

• Misleading

• Not suitable for your personal needs

This is why professional advice is always important, especially when it involves your wellbeing.

How to Use Social Media in a Healthy Way

Here are simple habits that help protect your wellbeing:

1. Set time limits

Aim to use social media intentionally rather than mindlessly.Short, planned check-ins can prevent overuse.

2. Avoid screens 1 hour before bed

This improves sleep quality and reduces mental stimulation.

3. Curate your feed

Follow:

• Positive pages

• Educational content

• Supportive communities

• Trusted health information sources

Remove accounts that cause stress or negative feelings.

4. Engage more, scroll less

Commenting, messaging, and connecting with others is healthier than rapid scrolling.

5. Take screen breaks

Encourage regular breaks for:

• Walking

• Fresh air

• Conversation

• Reading

• Stretching

Balance is key.

Summary

Social media can be a powerful tool for connection, learning, and enjoyment. However, overuse or unfiltered consumption can lead to challenges such as reduced attention span, weaker memory, stress, and disrupted sleep. By using social media mindfully, choosing positive content, and taking regular breaks, you can enjoy the benefits while avoiding most of the risks.

Call to Action

If you’d like personalised support in building healthy routines, whether for sleep, mental clarity, mobility, or general wellbeing, Arriba Physio is here to help. Our team works with seniors and NDIS participants across the Sunshine Coast to support independence, confidence, and long-term health. Contact us today to book a session or learn more.

How long do you spend on social media a day?

• Less than 1 Hour
• 1-2 Hours
• 2-4 hours
• 4+ hours

Disclaimer:

This information is general in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult your healthcare provider before making health decisions.