The invention of the internet ushered in a new age. It is an age of digitalisation, multiple platforms of communication and novel ways of expressing yourself. Yet, the rise of social media has also spurred criticisms from parents, users and local authorities alike. Cyberbullying, hate speech, digital fraud or the spreading of fake speech are all acts which have affected the lives of the innocent profoundly and unpredictably. These issues have led to calls for the media and the internet to be placed under further control by social media organisations (as seen in the recent Online Safety Act 2023). 

Yet, despite recent legal developments, the internet is still seen as this wild-west arena where the right to freedom of expression dominates. Thus, in 2004, Safer Internet Day was born. The scheme aims to educate young people, children, and teachers on making the best use of the online world by raising awareness of emerging online issues such as harassment, hate speech, data misuse, and fraud. This initiative was organised by a network of international Safer Internet Centres (SICs), which raise awareness and implement protective measures by educating users, running helplines and hotlines, and organising panel discussions. Ultimately, this aims to pave the way for the future of regulating behaviour within the online world in terms of striking the right balance between freedom of expression and protecting others on the internet.

Check out more about Safer Internet Day here. 

However, I’m not here today to discuss legislative reforms or my opinions on freedom of expression. I’m here to talk about how we can reduce the impact of the internet on our mental health. One main problem associated with the increasing use of social media lies in harassment, cyberbullying and hate speech (specifically, the effects associated with users on social media). Therefore, below, I’ve provided some guidance as to how one should approach using social media:

1. USE SOCIAL MEDIA AS A TOOL, DON’T BE DEPENDENT ON IT

My first interaction with Terms and Conditions Magazine was at their panel talk event “Where Fashion Meets Wellness in +852”. I had the opportunity to experience a panel talk with four leaders in Hong Kong’s wellness and fashion industry, where I heard one of the greatest quotes to associate with social media use: “Social media is a tool”. To me, this reminds us of the full capabilities of social media, such as extensive communication, enhanced expression and an opportunity to make positive societal contributions. Yet, the harmful effects of social media lie in the misuse of social media as a tool rather than the intrinsic nature of the platform. 

On this basis, we should approach the social media problem on our mental well-being. Rather than shutting ourselves off entirely through regulation and restriction, we should face social media with the understanding that such issues will inevitably exist alongside its use.

2. DON’T COMPARE, STRIVE TO BE YOUR AUTHENTIC SELF

One use of social media lies in posts or showing the audience what you get up to. Logically speaking, in doing this, you will present yourself in the best possible light because human instinct demands that we do so. Thus, when looking at other people’s posts, you have to remember not to compare yourself to the best version of other people. Instead, you should focus on yourself and enjoy the moment. Be grateful for what you have and make the most out of your opportunities. After all, that’s what everyone online is trying to show, right?

WORRY ABOUT WHAT IS IMPORTANT, NOT ABOUT WHAT DOESN’T MATTER

You may worry about what someone posts or says in the comment section. While this is what policy aims to combat, the first thing to do is to approach such messages with the right mindset. While it is essential to prevent harm and report abusive comments which have affected you deeply, it’s equally important not to let such comments drag you down. Constantly thinking about something someone said from half the world away will only cause unwanted distress and anxiety. It’s, therefore, essential not to care about what other people think but rather focus on the most vital things in your life. 

Growing up in a time where I can talk to someone halfway around the world in seconds puts into perspective the wonders of the internet and social media. Yet, it’s nevertheless necessary to remember that social media is neither inherently good nor bad. Instead, it’s a tool we can use for the greater good or the worse. Thus, in approaching social media, it’s necessary to bear in mind the adverse effects of its use and keep authentic to yourself despite this so that we don’t lose ourselves in that realm. 

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