Social media and technology have made many advancements, with phones now being tiny computers where everything is available with the touch of your thumb.

These advancements have led to increased screen time, with the average Canadian spending one hour and 17 minutes a day on social media and more than six hours a day on the Internet in general, according to Statista.

“I think my average daily phone usage is at 11 hours, and that’s a decrease from last week,” one Fanshawe student said. “It’s just easy to get lost down rabbit holes on TikTok. I use it as a way to relax and unwind, especially at the end of the day.”

But this uptick in usage can actually have negative effects on our mental health.

Canadians who spend 10 hours or less on screens a week are reported to have better mental health, according to Statistics Canada.

Although it is proven that excessive screen time can have negative impacts on mental health, that hasn’t stopped the usage of screens or social media.

“It’s like a form of self-care, I like to use social media to watch videos I find funny or satisfying,” another Fanshawe student said. “Yeah, I definitely compare myself to the people I see but I don’t think that’s necessarily bad.”

Social media is filled with influencers who post heavily edited photos and strictly the highlights from their lives.

“I try to limit the usage,” a Fanshawe student said. “At least once a week I delete like Snapchat or something because it sucks to see all these people thriving when you’re not and I compare where I am in my life versus these millionaire people and it just makes me feel bad and like I’m never gonna have that.”

Meta has recently introduced teen accounts for users under the age of 18. Teen accounts are restricted to limit offensive language and sensitive content like fighting, and the promotion of cosmetic surgery. All new accounts for users under 18 will automatically be placed in teen accounts and Meta is working to switch over all existing minor accounts to teen accounts.

“In an ever-evolving online world, this update ensures that young people can engage meaningfully and safely, fostering positive connections while still providing the protection they need,” said CEO and cofounder of Project Rockit, Lucy Thomas, in a Meta media release.

Although TikTok does have restrictions, there is nothing in place for younger users and they are able to access all the same content as anyone else.

“It’s super hard to regulate,” aspiring teacher, Teresa Pinder, said. “I think there are many benefits but unfortunately there are also downfalls that come with social media. There are many profiles that highlight healthy lifestyles and positive self-images, but there is also so much judgment with comments and putting yourself out there at the risk of photos being reproduced.”

One in five Canadian teenagers have been affected by cyberbullying, according to Public Safety Canada.

Social media and technology have proven to be a tool with many informational benefits. However, it is important to take a step back when necessary to ensure you maintain your mental health.