Many people visit Facebook and other social media websites on a daily basis. It has become a daily habit similar to checking emails or handling online finances. For others, browsing Facebook has become something of a pastime, but a recent study shows the potential health issues involving frequent usage of the website.
![Using Facebook Too Much Will Give You Depression [STUDY]](https://www.valuewalk.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/clost.png "Using Facebook Too Much Will Give You Depression [STUDY]")
A look at a recent study on Facebook
Mai-Ly Steers is the main author of a recent study titled “Seeing Everyone Else’s Highlight Reels: How Facebook Usage is Linked to Depressive Symptoms.” The study involved two completed experiments with over 100 subjects. The study measured their Facebook usage and depressive symptoms associated with usage. The subjects documented their feelings in questionnaires, diaries and self-reporting.
The study shows people who spend a lot of time on Facebook and mentally compare themselves to their friends tend to feel more depressed. Steers reminds everyone that Facebook isn’t the problem. The problem involves spending a sufficient amount of time “liking” others’ photos and focusing on other idle observations that might keep people from liking themselves. The problem has nothing to do with the actual website; it has everything to do with the activities taking place on the website.
The source of inspiration for the study
Steers admitted that she initially got the idea for the study after her younger sister didn’t get invited to a school dance. The teen subsequently logged onto Facebook and was bombarded with photos from the event she didn’t attend. Steers claimed she realized this was probably a common occurrence and wanted to do more research.
People on Facebook tend to show their best side, and this can sometimes make other users feel inadequate. The only piece of advice Steers had to offer in regards to her study was that Facebook users should limit their time on the website. There is nothing wrong with Facebook or appreciating the achievements of friends. It only becomes a problem if it hinders happiness.
