Stress Management: Using Social Media Wisely

If you’re anything like the rest of the world, the last 6 or so weeks have probably glued you to your social media accounts more than you’d care to admit. We go seeking the positivity of human connection, get caught up in finger-pointing and comparisons, and leave feeling even worse.
It’s a fine line during these times to connect while keeping all that toxicity at bay. And while you’re at it, make sure you aren’t contributing to the toxicity. This is possible and you can use social media in a healthy way, connecting with loved ones and brilliant minds while we’re under quarantine.
Be Choosy
Not all social networks are created equally, and you’ll certainly get a different experience depending on which one you choose. Spend some time connecting with brilliant minds on LinkedIn, Twitter, or another professional network. Share ideas, muse on interesting topics together. Feed your mind and soul through growth.
While you’re at it, make sure you take the time to update your LinkedIn profile with current interests and project information so people know who they’re connecting with!
Be Intentional
Be careful about mindless scrolling. The connection is generally superficial at best and you have no control over what you will see. Being inundated with stories of tragedy, loss, and anger will certainly not be helpful to your mental health. Instead, seek out certain individuals to connect with (curious about Joe? Check out his feed to see what he’s been up to lately, then message him directly to connect) or carefully curate your feed. Hide that conspiracy theorist aunt, snooze your friend who is railing in anger (but maybe check in on them individually, if you can handle it), and follow some new accounts that share uplifting, funny, or inspirational posts.
If you’re really looking for a mindless scroll, spend some time on Pinterest or Instagram, search something that brings you joy, and just soak up all the pretty pictures.
Be the Good
Sometimes, taking the time to care for others is just the salve our heart needs. Send a friend a funny GIF. Share a heartwarming story, a picture of a beautiful sunset, or a photo of a goofy animal. Do one of those silly “ask your kids” posts (not the ones that have you share personal information used for security purposes) so everyone can get some joy out of the innocence of children. Notice someone has been extra quiet or completely MIA? A quick “thinking of you” can make a world of difference…and you’ll feel that difference, too.
As we work our way through this second month of uncertainty, where no one agrees with each other, the world is upside down, and our lives have all changed, just remember the wisdom of Rumi: “Before you speak, let your words pass through three gates. At the first gate, ask yourself ‘Is it True?’. At the second gate ask ‘Is it necessary?’. At the third gate ask ‘Is it Kind?’”
Take care of yourself. Take care of each other.