Social media can be a dangerous thing

Waa gwaan, mi nice, clean readers? Mi hope unnu alrite an in the best of health. When mi seh health, mi no only mean physical, but also mental health.

Often times, we focus on the outward appearance and what is going on outside, but many times, we leave our minds on cruise control, and many people or elements infiltrate the mind, causing a lot of damage and destruction.

It is therefore of paramount importance that we guard our minds from negative attacks, which can come in many forms - one of which is social media.

Top chef and author Anthony Bourdain and renowned designer Kate Spade recently committed suicide, and social media has been flooded with memes and comments about mental health, suicide, and "checking in on that strong friend". There has been an outpouring for those who may be suffering in silence.

I find it somewhat ironic because social media is an avenue that leads many to depression.

From cyberbullying to trolling to the very unkind and uncharitable comments that are made on social media, many persons will be affected because not everyone can cope with how ferocious it can be.

Research from all over the world has shown that social media use has caused an increase in depression and anxiety among teens and young adults.

Truth be told, all if yuh a 1,000 years old right now and deh pon social media, it will have some kind of effect on you.

Social media has dramatically revolutionised the way we communicate, socialise, and make and maintain friendships.

While there are benefits to operating in a digital space, there are also risks of which we must be cognisant.

Social media can creep in and take over your mind and life in such a way that it adversely affects your mental health, self-esteem, sleep, memory and even yuh concentration!

People see people's lives on Instagram, Facebook and Snapchat and want those lives, sometimes at any cost.

Some persons may feel left out, left behind or even inadequate because they think their value and worth are determined by the number of 'likes' they get.

There is nothing wrong with being motivated by someone or aspiring to have a great life like they do, but when you become consumed and obsessed with others and their lifestyle, it can be detrimental.

Do not allow some people you don't know and who don't know you to determine who you are and should be. You hold that power and should never give it up!