Social media can be fun. But sometimes it can also make you tired, insecure, or lonely. Sound familiar?
You open Instagram, TikTok, or Snapchat. A friend’s sunny holiday photo. A classmate’s video, laughing with her friends. You keep scrolling. And it starts to feel like everyone else has a happier life than you.
It’s no wonder: according to UNICEF research , almost 70% of Dutch young people between 10 and 18 feel worse because of social media. It happens so often that some even say it should be banned until you’re 16.
What can social media do to your mind?
After a long scroll, it’s normal to feel empty, exhausted, or insecure. You may start asking yourself:
“Why don’t I ever do things that fun?”
“Why can’t I look that good?”
“Why do I still feel lonely when I have so many friends online?”
Many young people say that social media:
- Makes them feel like they’re not good enough
- Makes them have fear of missing out (FOMO)
- Makes them sleep worse or be less able to concentrate
- Makes them feel like having less real contact with others
Sometimes you come across hurtful comments or things that leave you feeling sad. Before you realize it, you’ve been scrolling way longer than you intended. Homework, exercise, or even just a moment of rest — it all slips away.
Even princesses Amalia, Alexia, and Ariane recognize this. So you’re definitely not alone.
Do you feel insecure after scrolling?
On social media, you mostly see other people’s good moments. That makes you insecure. And that’s not fair.
But social media isn’t all bad
You can also find things that make you happy.
- A funny video
- Chatting with a friend
- Inspiration for something creative
- Find information that will actually help you, such as Injebol
So social media isn’t “good” or “bad.” It’s all about how you use it. And most importantly: how do you feel afterwards?
Do you recognize this?
Then it’s okay to do something about it. For example, by talking about it.
At @ease you can chat with other young people. They often understand what you mean better than adults.
Do you want to talk to someone? Whether you’re stressed, being bullied, or feeling insecure because of social media, we’re listening. Here you can see