Written by Keri Platt, Health and Mindset Coach
Keri Platt is a Health and Mindset Coach, Founder of KPH Coaching and leader in bio-individual body and mind health. Following a personal journey of profound healing Keri developed a highly successful coaching method, which has seen her clients from all over the world transform their lives.
In a world where we're more connected than ever, thanks to social media, it’s ironic that many of us feel lonelier than ever before. With a smartphone in every pocket and apps that promise instant communication, you’d think we’d be swimming in human connection. Instead, we’re finding ourselves in a loneliness epidemic. Let’s explore how social media has contributed to this great disconnect and what we can do to rebuild genuine human connections.
Loneliness epidemic: The dark side of digital connectivity
It’s no secret that loneliness is on the rise. Studies show that social media, while designed to bring us closer, often leaves us feeling more isolated. A 2018 study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine found that young adults who spent more than two hours a day on social media were twice as likely to feel socially isolated compared to those who spent less time on these platforms.
The constant barrage of perfectly curated images and status updates can lead to feelings of inadequacy and exclusion. We see friends gathering without us, colleagues enjoying lavish vacations, and influencers living seemingly perfect lives. This phenomenon, often referred to as social comparison, can exacerbate feelings of loneliness and low self-esteem.
Losing the art of human connection: Emoji overload
Remember the days when a heartfelt conversation required eye contact, a warm smile, and maybe even a hug? In today’s digital age, these interactions have been replaced by likes, comments, and emojis. While these digital tokens can be fun and convenient, they lack the depth and authenticity of face-to-face communication.
A 2017 study by the Royal Society for Public Health in the UK revealed that while social media can enhance friendships, it often replaces more meaningful interactions. The study noted that platforms like Instagram and Snapchat, which focus heavily on images, can lead to a decrease in real-life social skills and emotional intelligence.
Digital love: How social media affects relationships
The impact of social media extends to our love lives as well. Online dating apps like Tinder, Bumble, and Hinge have revolutionised the way we meet potential partners. While these platforms have made it easier to connect with others, they also pose challenges for building deep, lasting relationships. Many people find themselves engaging in endless texting and virtual interactions without ever meeting in real life. This can create a sense of superficial connection and lead to disappointment when the online chemistry doesn’t translate into the real world.
Research published in the Journal of Social and Personal Relationships found that online interactions can sometimes replace face-to-face meetings, leading to weaker bonds and less commitment. The paradox of choice also plays a role here, as having too many options can make it difficult to settle on one person, perpetuating a cycle of brief, unfulfilling connections.
Why we have to learn to reconnect: The human touch
So, why is it so crucial that we learn to reconnect on a human level? Research shows that meaningful social interactions are vital for our mental and physical health. A 2010 meta-analysis by Brigham Young University found that social relationships improve the odds of survival by 50%, a statistic comparable to quitting smoking or cutting down on excessive drinking.
Reconnecting with others can also enhance our sense of belonging and purpose. When we engage in deep, meaningful conversations, we build trust and empathy, which are essential components of any strong relationship. This human connection can reduce stress, anxiety, and even symptoms of depression.
What the future looks like: balancing digital and real-world connections
As we move forward, the challenge lies in balancing our digital interactions with real-world connections. Here are some strategies to help foster genuine relationships while still enjoying the benefits of social media:
Limit screen time: Set boundaries for your social media use. Designate certain times of the day as social media-free and focus on engaging with the people around you.
Prioritise face-to-face interactions: Make an effort to meet friends and family in person. Whether it’s a coffee date or a weekend getaway, these interactions are invaluable for building and maintaining strong relationships.
Be mindful of your social media habits: Reflect on how you use social media. Are you using it to enhance your connections, or is it becoming a substitute for real-life interactions? Adjust your habits accordingly.
Engage in community activities: Join clubs, volunteer, or participate in local events. These activities provide opportunities to meet new people and form meaningful connections.
Practice active listening: When conversing with someone, whether online or in person, give them your full attention. Show interest in their thoughts and feelings, and avoid the temptation to check your phone.
Conclusion: Rediscovering the Joy of genuine connection
While social media has revolutionised the way we communicate, it’s clear that it cannot replace the depth and authenticity of face-to-face interactions. By being mindful of our social media use and making a concerted effort to reconnect with others on a human level, we can combat the loneliness epidemic and rediscover the joy of genuine connection. So, put down your phone, look up, and start a conversation, your mental and emotional well-being will thank you.
By addressing these issues and promoting a balanced approach to social media use, we can work towards a future where technology enhances, rather than detracts from, our human connections.
Health and Mindset Coaching can help you make lifestyle and habit changes that unlock your health, wealth and happiness potential. Using personalised strategies and scientifically proven tools to improve your health, longevity, resilience, stress management and life balance.
If you’d like to learn more or find out how you can start making healthy changes, follow me on Instagram, LinkedIn, and visit my website for more info!
Read more from Keri Platt
Keri Platt, Health and Mindset Coach
Keri Platt is a Health and Mindset Coach, Founder of KPH Coaching and leader in bio-individual body and mind health. Following a personal journey of profound healing Keri developed a highly successful coaching method, which has seen her clients from all over the world transform their lives. Providing workshops and one to one coaching to private and corporate clients from CEO’s and celebrities to law firms, hedge funds and a global tech company. She is on a mission to empower people to take control of their health and happiness and unlock their full potential.
References:
Primack, B. A., Shensa, A., Sidani, J. E., Whaite, E. O., Lin, L. Y., Rosen, D., Colditz, J. B., Radovic, A., & Miller, E. (2017). Social Media Use and Perceived Social Isolation Among Young Adults in the U.S. American Journal of Preventive Medicine, 53(1), 1-8.
Royal Society for Public Health. (2017). StatusOfMind: Social media and young people’s mental health and wellbeing. Retrieved here.
Holt-Lunstad, J., Smith, T. B., & Layton, J. B. (2010). Social Relationships and Mortality Risk: A Meta-analytic Review. PLoS Medicine, 7(7), e1000316.
Frost, J. H., & Rickwood, D. J. (2017). A Systematic Review of the Mental Health Outcomes Associated with Social Networking Use among Adolescents and Young Adults. Journal of Social and Personal Relationships, 34(6), 791-810.
