The Impact of Social Media on Youth – Benefits, Drawbacks & How to Stay in Control
Social media has blended so deeply into our lives that sometimes it's hard to figure out whether we control it or it controls us. Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat, YouTube Shorts, Reels… with all this, hours pass without us even realizing it.
Even I’ve noticed that when I say “just two minutes,” I end up scrolling for at least half an hour.
Social media isn’t completely bad—
it can be your friend or your enemy.
It all depends on how you use it.
Benefits of Social Media
1) Learning and Skill Development
If you want to learn anything today—photo editing, coding, cooking, fitness—everything is available online for free.
Sometimes a short reel teaches more than a full book.
2) A Chance to Build Your Own Brand
Earlier, it was difficult to find a platform to showcase yourself.
Today, all you need is a phone and a good idea.
Content creators, influencers, freelancers—many have built their careers through social media.
3) Staying Connected with the World
Whatever you love—travel, gaming, tech, food—you’ll find communities for everything.
Even if someone feels lonely, social media helps them find “their people.”
4) Career Opportunities
Social media itself has become a huge career space.
Digital marketing, video editing, social media management—these careers are booming today.
Drawbacks of Social Media
1) Massive Loss of Time
Most people don’t realize it, but they scroll for 2–3 hours a day.
If that time was used for studies, work, or self-improvement, life would look completely different.
2) Low Self-Confidence
Seeing others’ “perfect” lives makes us feel like we’re not good enough.
Depending on likes and comments to feel valuable is mentally exhausting.
3) Disturbed Sleep
Using the phone at night affects sleep badly.
Blue light + continuous information = overloaded brain.
4) Comparison & Stress
Social media is a highlight reel—people only show their best moments.
But we compare their highlights with our real life, which creates unnecessary pressure.
How to Stay in Control of Social Media (Practical Tips)
1) Set Screen Time Limits
Use built-in screen-time features on Instagram or YouTube.
When you cross the limit, your phone itself will tell you: “That’s enough for today!”
2) Create ‘No Phone Zones’
Examples:
1) No phone while eating
2) No phone 1 hour before sleeping
3) Keep phone silent or away while studying/working
3) Follow the Right Accounts
If an account makes you feel jealous, irritated, or negative—
Just unfollow.
Your feed should match your mood: positive, inspiring, and peaceful.
4) Use ‘Do Not Disturb’ Mode
It’s more effective than just putting your phone on silent—especially when working or studying.
5) Do a Social Media Detox
Take one day a week away from social media.
It helps reset the mind and improve focus.
6) Spend Time in the Real World
There’s so much more outside your phone—
friends, nature, travel, books.
These experiences bring more happiness than scrolling ever will.
Final Thoughts
Social media is like a knife—
you can cook with it, or you can hurt yourself.
If you maintain balance, social media becomes a powerful tool for
learning, growing, and understanding the world better.