Helloooo! I wouldn’t say that I am an avid social media user. All I have is a Facebook and the main reason I am on there is for promoting lifewithlilred and, of course, it’s nice to keep in touch with old friends. But, despite only being on one platform, I think that I am not the only one who can agree that sometimes social media can bum you out. I know that I definitely experience this phenomenon even though I strictly scroll though my newsfeed for entertainment purposes.

Why is that? Well, for starters, everything that people post isn’t always entertaining. Believe you me, I wish that my entire newsfeed was filled with cute puppies and funny memes all of the time. But, rather, it is a mixed bag with some stuff that gives me a laugh and others that make me wish I had never seen it at all.

I understand that the news is an important thing and being aware of what’s going on in your community as well as world wide is something that I, myself, need to be better at. But, I never understand why people feel the need to share articles from news sources that are completely heinous. I get upset really easily when it comes to crimes against humanity, animals, and children – as everyone should. And, the last thing I want is to see a picture of an abused animal when I’m trying to get my “lol” on.

And, there is always the classic “feeling down about yourself because your friends are posting all of the cool stuff in their lives” sensation. Ah yes, the marriages, engagements, promotions, travel, and babies galore. When I am in a crappy place already, this can make me feel even worse, not because I’m not happy for my friends, of course. But, because I feel like I’m behind even though life isn’t a race.

It can be difficult to remember that ninety-nine percent of the time, social media is used to post your exciting news – not to air your dirty laundry and deepest, darkest secrets. And, behind closed doors, we really don’t know what anyone’s life is actually like aside from what they portray on social media. This is something that would be wise to remind myself of every now and again.

Social media is a wonderful tool but it can also effect your mental health if used the wrong way. So, if you struggle with some of the issues I mentioned, take a break from your socials for the day and give yourself some breathing room. And, then, get back to posting all of the funny memes, please and thank you!

What are some negative things about social media? How do you portray yourself on your socials? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah