An Electronic Mental Health Newsletter from Joel I. Kimmel, Ph.D., P.A. & Associates Volume 20, Number 5
How many times a day do you check Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X, or other social media platforms? Have you ever caught yourself endlessly scrolling, comparing yourself to others online, or feeling irritated when you cannot check your accounts?
For many people, social media has become part of daily life. The term Social Media Addiction (SMA) refers to excessive social media use that interferes with important areas of life. Although SMA is not officially classified as a formal addiction, unhealthy social media habits can still create very real emotional and psychological consequences.
Many individuals struggling with unhealthy social media use find themselves checking accounts repeatedly throughout the day, becoming emotionally affected by likes, comments, or lack of attention online. Over time, this can contribute to stress, anxiety, sleep problems, concentration difficulties, and relationship strain.
Social media platforms are intentionally designed to capture attention. Notifications, likes, shares, and endless scrolling activate the brain’s reward system, encouraging repeated use. For some people, social media can gradually replace real-life interaction and become a way to avoid stress, loneliness, boredom, or emotional discomfort.
The good news is that healthier balance is possible. The goal is not necessarily to eliminate social media completely, but to use it more intentionally and mindfully. Many people benefit from creating healthier boundaries with technology and spending more time engaged in meaningful offline relationships and activities.
What to Know About Social Media Addiction
- Excessive social media use can negatively affect emotional health, sleep, concentration, and relationships.
- People struggling with unhealthy use may:
- Feel anxious or restless when unable to check social media
- Spend far more time online than intended
- Think about social media even when offline
- Use social media to escape stress or emotional discomfort
- Lose interest in hobbies or in-person relationships
- Research has linked excessive social media use with:
- Anxiety and depression
- Attention and concentration problems
- Sleep disturbances
- Increased impulsivity
- Body image concerns
- Relationship conflicts and social isolation
What You Can Do
- Schedule specific times to check social media
- Avoid checking social media first thing in the morning or before bed
- Strengthen offline relationships and activities
- Engage in hobbies, exercise, and community involvement
- Pause before posting and ask yourself:
- “Why am I sharing this?”
- “Am I looking for connection or validation?”
- Consider periodic “digital detox” breaks
We Can Help
If social media use is negatively affecting your emotional health, relationships, or daily functioning, professional support may help you regain balance and improve overall well-being.
We’re Here for You
Schedule a confidential consultation to talk through what you’re experiencing. We provide individual and family therapy, stress management, and treatment for anxiety and depression in both English and Spanish.
Call us: 954-755-2885, email us at info@kimmelpsychology.com or visit us at www.KimmelPsychology.com.
Joel I. Kimmel, Ph.D. P.A. and Associates
5551 N University Drive, Suite 202
Coral Springs, FL 33067
As always, we value your thoughts. If you would like to respond to this e-Letter, email your comments to DrKimmel@KimmelPsychology.com and we will publish them next month.
Till June…
The information provided in this electronic newsletter is not a substitute for professional treatment. It is the opinions of the writers and is provided solely for educational purposes. For mental health care, seek a qualified professional.
If you find this information helpful, please feel free to share it with others. If you received this e-Letter via email and no longer wish to receive them, please send an email to: DrKimmel@KimmelPsychology.com with Unsubscribe in the subject line.
© 2026 Joel I. Kimmel, Ph.D., P.A. and Associates
