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Staying safe in the online world

The world is very different to what it was ten years ago, not least across the digital landscape, where constant change leaves young people facing an unrecognisable society. Here, ahead of Youth Mental Health Day, on September 19, Dr Elizabeth Lee, clinical psychologist and director of The Purple House Clinic, in Nottingham, shares strategies to help youngsters enjoy safe and positive online experiences.

Pros and cons

When used appropriately, social media has many benefits.

It allows instant connections and communications with friends and family, prevents loneliness and provides instant access to entertainment and information.

Social media also has educational value by enabling students, teachers and parents to get useful information easily and connect with learning groups and educational systems.

However, if misused, social media can have a negative impact, with online bullying, misinformation, scams, a lack of privacy and addiction all by-products of increased online communication.

Privacy

By limiting what you post about yourself, you can control how much you are being perceived and how much people know about you.

Control who you follow and what content you see; you only want posts that bring you joy or interest. 

Unfollow or mute accounts that annoy you, upset you or make you feel bad.

Don't compare yourself

Comparison is the thief of joy.

People only post things they want others to see.

Social media isn't reality; it's a highlight reel.

Don't let statistics determine your self-worth

Social media can sometimes seem like a popularity competition.

It is easy to become fixated on the number of likes or followers you have.

In reality, though, nobody is checking each other's statistics.

Try not to take social media too seriously - it's supposed to be fun!

Live in the moment

Set time limits and take breaks from social media.

Take a step back from your phone every so often and find a fun activity to do, be it a walk, catching up with friends or going to the gym.

Switch off

The blue light from our phones and other devices can negatively impact our quality of sleep.

Try to log off from social media and shut down screens about an hour before bed, to allow time for your mind to rest.

Use online and in-person mental health tools

There are so many online resources available for people with mental health difficulties, and using these can help track your mood, seek support or practise relaxation.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Bdaily Publishing .