A recent survey highlights growing concerns over social media usage and its effects on mental health among Gen-Z in the UK.
- The ‘Healthier Nation Index’ survey by Nuffield Health indicates a 7% rise in social media use among 16-24 year-olds.
- Young users average over two hours a day on platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook.
- Doomscrolling, or continuous scrolling through negative news, is becoming prevalent.
- A significant portion of Gen-Z reports negative impacts on their mental and physical health due to social media.
Nuffield Health’s ‘Healthier Nation Index’ has revealed significant insights into the social media habits of Generation Z in the UK. The survey of 8,000 adults shows a noticeable 7% rise in social media usage among 16 to 24-year-olds in the past year. On average, this age group now spends over two hours daily engaged with apps such as TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook. Such an increase highlights a shift in digital engagement among the younger demographic, far exceeding the recommended daily usage that promotes well-being.
The phenomenon known as ‘doomscrolling,’ wherein individuals incessantly consume bleak news via social media, has become a concerning trend. Originating during the pandemic, this habit persists, with many young Brits admitting to regular pre-sleep phone usage. Alarmingly, nearly a quarter of respondents identified screen time as a top barrier to restful sleep. Furthermore, 44.44% of young individuals noted social media’s detrimental effects on their mental and physical health over the previous year.
It is well-documented that poor sleep often leads to negative mental and physical health outcomes. The complex relationship between sleep and mental health suggests that inadequate rest can heighten emotional sensitivity and negative thought patterns. Studies indicate that consistent sleep interruptions may double the likelihood of stress response, underscoring the potential workplace ramifications. In environments faced with routine stressors, employees lacking sleep are more prone to overreact, potentially escalating issues into anxiety or depression, thus impacting productivity and increasing absenteeism.
Lisa Gunn, the Mental Health Prevention Lead at Nuffield Health, advises that employers take proactive measures to mitigate these challenges. Recognizing detrimental social media habits is essential; employees excessively using phones for personal engagements may exhibit signs of dependency. Implementing workplace guidelines governing social media use can establish necessary boundaries and maintain productivity. These policies, incorporated within employment contracts, should be clearly communicated to all staff.
Additionally, encouraging employees to pursue healthier lifestyles outside of work is crucial. While connectivity is advantageous, the relentless drive to remain ‘always on’ can cultivate burnout. Alternatives such as designated work hours for digital interaction and promotions of activities like exercise or meditation can aid in reducing phone dependency. Furthermore, organized sessions on sleep hygiene can equip staff with tools to enhance sleep quality, emphasizing electronic device limitations post-work hours.
Promoting a supportive work environment where emotional wellbeing is prioritized can also combat the adverse effects of social media. Employers should provide access to support services like cognitive behavioral therapy or Employee Assistance Programs, which offer confidential guidance to those impacted by the overwhelming nature of digital consumption. The findings from the ‘Healthier Nation Index’ shed light on the pressing need for conscious digital consumption and proactive wellbeing efforts.
This survey underscores the pressing need for balanced social media use and improved mental health strategies within the workplace.
