At Severn Angels Housing & Support (SAHS), we encourage individuals to take responsibility for their overall wellbeing — physically, emotionally, and mentally. One area that is increasingly shaping wellbeing today is social media use.
The Rise of Digital Fear and Negativity:
Social media has transformed the way we connect, but it has also created a constant stream of information — much of it negative, fearful, or unrealistic. Instead of uplifting people, many platforms amplify hate speech, pessimistic news, body image pressures, and unhealthy comparisons.
Research shows that heavy social media use is strongly linked with increased anxiety, depression, and poor sleep. For many, algorithms tend to push more extreme or emotionally charged content, creating cycles of fear and hopelessness.
Living in Fear of the Future:
This digital overload can create what psychologists call a “threat mindset” — where individuals constantly expect danger, loss, or rejection. Instead of focusing on their own goals, many end up feeling:
- Afraid about the future.
- Distracted from positive routines and aspirations.
- Less hopeful that things can ever improve.
From Fear to Empowerment:
Part of empowerment is building digital resilience — the ability to use technology without letting it control your emotions or outlook on life. Some small but powerful steps include:
- Limit screen time — set daily boundaries and avoid scrolling before bed.
- Follow positivity— engage with accounts that inspire growth, learning, and wellbeing.
- Challenge comparisons— remember that online images rarely reflect reality.
- Seek balance offline— hobbies, friendships, volunteering, and learning new skills all build confidence and purpose.
Why This Matters for Everyone:
Reclaiming control from negative digital influences is important for all of us. Life already comes with challenges — whether financial pressures, health concerns, or personal setbacks — and these can feel even heavier when combined with the pessimism and fear often generated by social media.
By building awareness of how online content affects us, individuals can:
- Strengthen their mental and emotional resilience.
- Stay focused on their own journey instead of being distracted by unrealistic comparisons.
- Develop an optimistic, empowered outlook for the future.
At SAHS, part of our mission is to promote empowerment and wellbeing. Encouraging healthier digital habits is just one way to help people feel more in control, more confident, and more hopeful about what lies ahead.
