Media, Social Media, and Mental Well-being

Media's Impact on Society

In my country, there was a significant trend of morning shows featuring celebrities and their families getting married. These shows presented extravagant stages, elaborate decorations, and luxurious outfits, showcasing customs and traditions that were not part of mainstream culture. These celebrations often lasted for at least a week, if not longer. As a result, many people, especially younger women, began to desire similarly extravagant wedding ceremonies.

While these shows also included interviews, health information, security tips, makeup trends, and other entertaining content, they were primarily famous for the weddings. An insider revealed that the money spent on these celebrations came from producers and sponsors, making it clear that a regular person couldn't afford such extravagance without additional help. This reminder was important, at least to me, as it highlighted the unrealistic nature of these portrayals.

The Adverse Effects of Media Content

This phenomenon reminded me of a time when superhero films influenced young boys to wear pretend capes and engage in dangerous behaviour. Not everyone did this, but some did, demonstrating the potential adverse effects of media content. While media can have positive impacts, the negative effects, though less frequent, tend to be more intense and damaging.

The Rise of Misleading Content on Social Media

Such trends have continued on social media, where there is a plethora of informative (though not always authentic) and entertaining content. However, alongside this, a lot of misleading content is also shared. Influencers often showcase themselves giving away expensive smartphones, buying luxury cars like Mercedes or BMW, and engaging in other lavish activities. These giveaways and purchases are usually sponsored, and the behind-the-scenes reality involves much more effort and struggle than is portrayed.

The Impact on Younger Audiences

Younger audiences, in particular, are influenced by this content. They try to imitate influencers by giving away valuable items without their parents' consent or seeking instant results through unethical means. Children, who still lack experience, and individuals with self-esteem issues are especially susceptible. While others may watch this content for entertainment, younger individuals, driven by instant gratification, are inspired to do whatever it takes to gain fame and emulate influencers.

The Misleading Glamour of Influencer Lifestyles

Influencers often post pictures of expensive meals and luxurious experiences on social media. It is not always clear whether they paid for these themselves, how many dishes were ordered, or whether the food was shared. Despite not knowing these details, viewers still aspire to have similar experiences, prioritising such desires over more meaningful pursuits.

Many influencers have achieved their status through hard work and struggle, by trail and error, and some are even dropouts who indirectly encourage others to do the same. While ambition and the pursuit of success are not harmful, neglecting education and chasing superficial goals can lead to long-term dissatisfaction.

The Need for Authenticity and Responsibility

The current generation finds reality less attractive compared to the glamorous lives portrayed by influencers. If influencers were to show their struggles and the less glamorous aspects of their lives, they might lose viewers. However, it is their responsibility to convey the message that life is not as easy as it seems without faking it. They should make their audience realise that being thankful for what you have is more satisfying than constantly chasing distant dreams. Aiming high is important, but it should not come at the cost of stepping on others or losing touch with reality.

Our Role as Consumers

It is not solely the influencers' responsibility to change this narrative. As consumers, if we stop watching and sharing such content, influencers will have to adapt. We all need to prioritise what is important and what is not. Remember that media and social media often present a curated and exaggerated version of reality. High-end possessions and lifestyles are rarely achieved instantly and involve much more than what is shown.

Prioritising Mental and Physical Well-being

Take care of your physical and mental health, appreciate the people and relationships around you, and be thankful for what you have. If you can walk but don't enjoy it, remember that there are people who can't walk at all. Instead of being thankless and wishing for luxury cars, work hard for your goals, prioritise important things, seek authentic information and education, and strive for lasting and satisfying success.

S.F.Awan

M.Phil. - Clinical Psychology