How Social Media Could Be Making Your Anxiety Worse
Anxiety is a common psychological experience that can affect anyone at various points in their lives. It's characterised by worry, fear, or apprehension regarding future events. While some levels of anxiety can be expected, such as feeling nervous before a big presentation or an upcoming life change, others can become persistent, leading to significant distress in daily functioning. Common symptoms of anxiety include:
Racing thoughts
Increased heart rate
Restlessness or feeling on edge
Irritability
Difficulty concentrating
These feelings may not only disrupt your day-to-day activities but can also lead to more severe mental health challenges if left unaddressed.
Impact of Social Media on Mental Health
Social media has become integral to our daily lives, but its impact on mental health cannot be understated. While it offers connection and interaction, it can also have an unhelpful side that can contribute to difficulties with anxiety:
Fear of Missing Out (FOMO): Constant exposure to others’ activities and browsing through friends’ highlights can make you feel inadequate about your life, or feel pressured to stay constantly connected to avoid missing social updates. This perception may fuel continuous checking of social media, possibly leading to feelings of dissatisfaction. Stress and/or loneliness.
Social Comparison: Many individuals find themselves caught in a cycle of comparing their lives to the seemingly perfect lives portrayed online, possibly causing further anxiety and a decline in self-esteem.
Cyberbullying: Harassment and negative interactions on social media platforms can leave emotional scars, heightening feelings of anxiety and isolation.
Information Overload: The vast amount of information and constant notifications can overwhelm users, contributing to anxiety. Exposure to distressing news or global crises through social media may heighten anxiety symptoms, particularly in those with pre-existing vulnerabilities.
Disrupted Sleep Patterns: Social media use, especially before bed, can interfere with sleep due to blue light exposure and emotional stimulation. Poor sleep quality is strongly linked to increased anxiety.
Comparison of Offline and Online Social Interactions
The comparison between offline (face-to-face) and online social interactions has been a key focus in psychological and sociological research. While both modes of interaction serve to fulfill social needs, they differ in how they impact mental health, relationships, and well-being.
Influence on Anxiety Levels
When considering how social interactions impact anxiety levels, a clear distinction arises between offline and online experiences. Offline face—to—face interactions tend to foster deeper connections, build trust, and help alleviate stress. Engaging in real conversations allows you to read body language and emotional cues significantly, which may reduce feelings of isolation and anxiety. In contrast, online interactions may lead to heightened anxiety levels. The lure of social media allows for constant comparison and can lead to feelings of inadequacy:
Limited Feedback: Online communication strips away the immediate feedback in face-to-face conversations, making it harder to interpret tone and intention.
Passive Engagement: Scrolling through curated posts can cultivate envy and dissatisfaction—leading to increased loneliness, especially when you see friends having fun without you.
The constant barrage of likes and comments can further exacerbate feelings of anxiety, particularly among those already struggling with mental health issues.
Role of Social Media in Fostering FOMO
Social media plays a significant role in amplifying the Fear of Missing Out (FOMO), which can be particularly anxiety-inducing. With a never-ending stream of updates from friends’ adventures, accomplishments, and events, it’s easy to feel left behind. When you’re bombarded with images of celebrations or exclusive activities, you may find yourself thinking:
“Why wasn’t I invited?”
“What am I missing out on?”
This FOMO creates pressure to stay connected and engaged, sometimes leading to compulsive checking of social platforms, which only reinforces anxiety. Combatting FOMO involves recognising that much of what’s shared online is curated and not a true reflection of everyday life. By focusing on your offline relationships and emphasising mindfulness, you can cultivate a healthier relationship with social media and real-world interactions.
Addiction to Social Media
A growing body of research suggests that people can become addicted to social media use. Social media addiction is not yet recognised as a formal diagnosis in major diagnostic manuals like the DSM-5 or ICD-11, but it is often conceptualised within the framework of behavioural addictions, similar to gambling disorders. Social media addiction is typically defined as the excessive and compulsive use of social media platforms, characterised by:
Loss of control over usage.
Preoccupation with social media.
Negative consequences in daily life, such as impaired work, school, or relationships.
Continued use despite these negative outcomes.
Effects of Excessive Social Media Use
The rise of social media has transformed how we connect and share, but it has also introduced the potential for addiction. When you start falling down the rabbit hole of excessive scrolling, you may find yourself trapped in a negative cycle that impacts your well-being in various ways:
Physical Health Concerns: Spending long hours on social media can lead to a sedentary lifestyle, which is linked to various health issues..
Mental Wellbeing: Prolonged use can lead to increased risk of anxiety, stress, and depression. Often, when individuals seek out social media to escape boredom or stress, it can paradoxically lead to increased feelings of isolation.
Neglecting Real-Life Relationships: Another consequence of social media addiction can be impaired social and professional relationships due to neglect of face-to-face interactions. It may also lead to reduced productivity at work or school due to distraction.
Link Between Social Media Addiction and Anxiety
Research highlights a significant link between social media addiction and anxiety. The cycle of feeling lonely or anxious, in turn leading to more social media use, is a noted phenomenon:
Fear of Missing Out (FOMO): This feeling can trigger compulsive checking of notifications and updates, making you feel even more disconnected when you see others seemingly having fun.
Social Comparisons: Research suggested that addicted users may be more likely to engage in upward social comparisons, where they compared themselves to idealised portrayals of others, leading to feelings of inadequacy and heightened anxiety. Furthermore, a reliance on likes, comments, and shares for self-worth can cause anxiety, especially when expectations are unmet.
Recognising these patterns is vital. If you notice your mental health declining and the pressure to engage with social media becoming overwhelming, consider setting boundaries. Small changes can help to mitigate your anxiety, such as reducing screen time or curating your social media feed.
Cyberbullying and Trolling
Impact on Mental Health
Cyberbullying and trolling can have profound effects on the mental health of individuals, particularly among teens and young adults. With the prevalence of social media, stories of online harassment are unfortunately becoming increasingly common. The mental health impacts can manifest in various ways:
Increased Anxiety: Victims often experience heightened levels of anxiety, fearing further attacks or negative evaluations from peers.
Depression: The constant barrage of negative messages can lead to feelings of hopelessness and depression, sometimes escalating to thoughts of self-harm or suicide.
Social Isolation: Many individuals withdraw from social interactions, both online and offline, leading to loneliness and exacerbating mental health issues.
Research indicates that cyberbullying can create a dissonance between the ideal self presented online and the authentic self, leading to feelings of inadequacy and further depression.
Strategies to Combat Online Harassment
While the effects of cyberbullying are serious, some strategies can help mitigate its impact:
Educate Yourself and Others: Understanding what constitutes bullying can empower students to recognise and combat it when it occurs.
Report and Block: Encourage individuals to use platform tools to report harassment and block offenders. Documenting incidents can also be valuable for pursuing action if necessary.
Build Support Networks: Cultivating a solid support system can help victims feel less isolated. Whether it’s friends, family, or counsellors, talking about their experiences can be cathartic. If you are concerned for your or someone else’s mental health wellbeing, there are helplines you can reach out to, including lifeline (13 11 14), beyond blue (1300 22 4636) and the mental health line (1800 011 511). If you require urgent support, call 000 or present to your nearest emergency department.
Unrealistic Comparisons and Anxiety Triggers
Social Media's Role in Fostering Comparison
In our hyper-connected world, social media is a double-edged sword for self-image and mental health. As you scroll through feeds filled with picturesque moments, idyllic vacations, and perfect bodies, it’s easy to slip into the trap of unrealistic comparisons. Research shows that this dissonance between the curated online personas and your reality can lead to heightened anxiety and feelings of inadequacy.
Imposter Syndrome: You might feel unworthy or think you’re not doing enough, leading to increased stress.
Depression and Loneliness: Seeing others appear socially fulfilled can make you feel isolated in your struggles, amplifying those negative feelings.
Distorted Self-Image: Continuous exposure to idealised images can foster dissatisfaction with your own life, possibly leading to body image issues and unhealthy habits.
Managing Anxiety Triggered by Social Media
Limit Exposure: Set boundaries for social media use—consider taking regular breaks or scheduling specific times to check your accounts.
Curate Your Feed: Unfollow accounts that trigger negative emotions or feelings of inadequacy. Instead, follow people who inspire you and promote positive messages.
Practice Gratitude: Keep a gratitude journal to redirect your focus. Reflecting on the positive aspects of your life can help counteract feelings of jealousy or insecurity.
Engage in Mindfulness: Techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, or yoga can ground you, helping to reduce anxiety and cultivate a more positive self-image.
Fear of Missing Out (FOMO)
Definition and Symptoms
Fear of Missing Out, commonly abbreviated as FOMO, is a growing phenomenon in our digital age. It refers to the pervasive anxiety that you’re missing out on rewarding experiences that others are partaking in, particularly those highlighted on social media. Instead of fostering genuine connections, FOMO often amplifies feelings of inadequacy and loneliness. Some key aspects of FOMO include:
Constantly Checking Social Media: You might frequently refresh your feeds, hoping to catch the latest updates and feel included.
Feelings of Anxiety or Sadness: You might feel a wave of sadness or anxiety when scrolling through friends' posts, imagining that they are having more fun or living better lives than you.
Decline in Focus: Your ability to engage in activities might decrease because your mind is preoccupied with what others might be doing instead.
Strategies to Overcome FOMO Anxiety
Fortunately, there are effective strategies to help mitigate FOMO:
Be Mindful of Your Social Media Time: Set limits on your usage. Consider designating specific times to check social media or use apps to help you track and reduce usage.
Engage in Offline Activities: Dive into hobbies or spend time with friends and family, building real connections that foster more meaningful satisfaction.
Reduce Exposure to Triggers: Unfollow accounts or mute notifications from profiles that make you feel inadequate. Curate your social media feed to prioritise positivity.
By integrating these strategies into your daily routine, you can reclaim your time and focus, making space for activities that genuinely bring you joy without the cloud of FOMO.
Social Media's Role in Amplifying Negative News
Impact of Constant Exposure to Negative News
In the digital age, social media has become a primary news source for many. While there is benefit to having access to news via these platforms, the relentless stream of negative news can take a toll on your emotional wellness, sometimes leading to heightened anxiety and stress. The impacts of constant exposure to negative news may include:
Anxiety and Fear: Continuous reports of violence, disasters, and political turmoil can increase feelings of insecurity and fear about the world.
Depression: Some recent studies suggest a possible link between increased news consumption via social media and depressive symptoms.
Social media platforms, driven by algorithms that favour engaging content, often amplify sensationalised stories. This drive to generate likes can create a narrative of a world filled with despair.
Maintaining Emotional Well-being while Using Social Media
Despite the influence of negative news, you can take proactive steps to safeguard your emotional well-being:
Limit News Exposure: Set specific time limits for how much news you consume daily, and avoid checking news before bedtime.
Curate Your Feed: Unfollow sources that frequently share negative news. Instead, seek outlets that provide balanced perspectives.
Engage with Solutions: Connect with groups and organisations addressing the issues. Taking action can transform feelings of helplessness into empowerment.
Practice Mindfulness: Take regular breaks from screens to engage in activities that ground you, such as meditation, exercise, or spending time in nature.
Implementing these strategies can help you foster a healthier relationship with social media, stay informed, and protect your mental well-being.
Social Media and Body Image Concerns
Influence of Social Media on Body Image
The constant exposure to images of celebrities, fitness models, and curated lifestyles can create unrealistic beauty standards that most people cannot attain. This phenomenon is particularly pronounced among teens and young adults, who may spend hours viewing these images daily. Research indicates that this exposure can lead to:
Body Dissatisfaction: When you constantly compare your appearance to those you see online, it’s easy to feel inadequate, prompting negative thoughts about your weight, shape, and overall body image.
Internalisation of Thin Ideals: As users subconsciously adopt these unattainable beauty standards, dissatisfaction with one’s body can grow, fostering unhealthy habits and thoughts.
Increased Risk of Eating Disorders: Studies have linked high social media usage with an increased drive for thinness, which can result in disordered eating behaviours.
Addressing Body Image Anxiety Triggered by Social Media
Limit Social Media Use: Reducing your time on platforms can significantly decrease exposure to harmful content. Consider designating specific times to check social media or using apps to monitor usage.
Curate Your Feed: Unfollowing accounts that perpetuate body image ideals can shield you from unfavourable comparisons. Instead, follow body-positive accounts that uplift and diversify representations of beauty.
Practice Positive Self-Talk: When negative thoughts creep in, counter them with affirmations about your worth beyond appearance. Remember that your looks or social media metrics don't determine your value.
Engage in Offline Activities: Participation in hobbies, exercise, or social events can help shift focus away from social media pressures, fostering real-life connections and self-acceptance.
Pressure to Present a Perfect Image Online
Effects of Social Media on Self-esteem
With the rise of social media, there has been an increasing pressure to present a perfect image online, which can take a significant toll on self-esteem. There is an urge to post that "perfect" snapshot showcasing your seemingly ideal life. When you constantly compare your everyday reality with others' highlight reels, it’s not surprising to feel:
Low Self-Worth: Seeing filtered photos and glamorous lifestyles can distort your perception and make you feel less valuable.
Increased Anxiety: The fear of not measuring up to the standards set by social media may lead to performance anxiety.
Depression: For many, the continuous cycle of comparison can foster feelings of inadequacy that can lead to more severe mental health issues.
Overcoming the Pressure to Portray Perfection
Fortunately, there are effective strategies to combat this cycle of pressure and encourage a healthier self-image:
Practice Authenticity: Embrace your authentic, unfiltered self.
Shift Your Focus: Redirect your energy to activities that build your self-esteem outside social media. Engage in hobbies where you can shine without the comparative lens of online platforms.
Limit Consumption: Set boundaries on your social media usage and curate your feed. Unfollow accounts that perpetuate feelings of inadequacy and instead seek out those that celebrate diversity and authenticity.
Reflect on Value: Remember your unique qualities and achievements that aren’t measured by likes or comments.
Digital Detox and its Benefits
Importance of Taking Breaks from Social Media
In an age where our lives are heavily intertwined with social media, the concept of a digital detox has become increasingly relevant. Taking regular breaks from social media can be important for your mental and emotional well-being.
Mental Clarity: Stepping away from the constant influx of information may help clear your mind and lower stress.
Reduced Anxiety Levels: Without the pressure of maintaining an online presence and avoiding the stress of constant comparisons, you can experience a significant drop in unhelpful anxiety levels.
Improved Relationships: Taking a break encourages you to reconnect with those physically around you, fostering more meaningful time with friends and family.
Research indicates that periodic breaks from social media can lead to lower levels of depression and anxiety, emphasising the need to maintain a healthy balance.
Strategies for a Successful Digital Detox
If you’re ready to embark on a digital detox, here are some effective strategies:
Set Clear Goals: Decide how long you want to be offline: a day, a weekend, or a week. Write down your commitment.
Notify Your Connections: Inform friends and family of your break so they know you won’t be responsive online.
Find Alternative Activities: Engage in hobbies or offline activities that interest you, like reading, hiking, or cooking—anything that distracts and enriches your life!
Use Technology Wisely: Consider using apps that limit your social media access. This strategy can help you resist the temptation to check in your accounts.
By implementing these strategies, you will hopefully be able to navigate a digital detox and enjoy all the mental and emotional benefits of being present in the real world. Taking time away from screens can help you reconnect with yourself and those around you.
Seeking Professional Help for Anxiety
Signs to Watch for
Recognising when anxiety crosses the line into something that warrants professional help can be challenging. Many try to brush off unease, thinking the symptoms can be managed independently. However, knowing the signs that you might need help for anxiety is important for safeguarding your mental health. Key symptoms that suggest it might be time to seek support include:
Persistent Worry: If you worry excessively about daily tasks or events, it may indicate generalised anxiety.
Irritability or Restlessness: Feeling persistently on edge or irritable can affect your interactions with others and disrupt your daily life.
Physical Symptoms: Anxiety can manifest physically. Common signs include headaches, fatigue, increased heart rate, or unexplained aches and pains.
Withdrawal from Social Activities: If you notice yourself avoiding friends or situations you once enjoyed, this can signal heightened anxiety.
If you resonate with these signs, know that seeking help is a proactive step towards feeling better.
Consultation with Mental Health Professionals
Consulting a mental health professional can provide the guidance and tools necessary to manage anxiety effectively. Here’s what to expect when you reach out for support:
Initial Assessment: A professional will typically begin with an assessment to understand your symptoms, triggers, and history.
Personalised Treatment Plan: Together, you might develop a treatment plan. This regimen may include cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), which helps identify and reshape negative thought patterns.
Supportive Environment: Remember, therapy is a safe space. You can express your feelings without judgment and work collaboratively towards positive change.
Skill Development: Professionals can teach you coping strategies and skills to manage anxiety, which you can practice in your own life.
Seeking help is a courageous and vital step in your journey to better mental health. If you are feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, reaching out to a mental health professional could be beneficial.
Mindful Social Media Use
Incorporating Mindfulness Practices
Mindfulness involves being present in the moment, which can help you manage the anxiety often associated with the barrage of information on social media platforms. Here are some ways to incorporate mindfulness into your social media habits:
Set Intentions: Before logging in, take a moment to decide what you want to achieve. Are you checking for updates from friends or simply passing the time? Having a clear intention can help you stay focused and avoid mindless scrolling.
Take Breaks: Schedule regular breaks from social media. Even a few minutes to step outside, stretch, or practice deep breathing can help clear your mind and reset your focus.
Practice Gratitude: When you feel inadequate while browsing, pause and actively acknowledge aspects of your life you appreciate. This shift in focus can help counteract feelings of envy or dissatisfaction.
Creating a Positive Online Experience
Your online experience doesn’t have to be anxiety-inducing. Creating a positive social media environment is within your control. Here’s how:
Curate Your Feed: Follow accounts that inspire and uplift you. Surround yourself with positivity by seeking content that resonates with your values and interests.
Engage Actively: Instead of passively scrolling, interact with posts that bring you joy. Like, comment, or share thoughtful responses to foster community and connection.
Limit Exposure to Negativity: Unfollow or mute accounts that you find unhelpful.
By integrating mindfulness and crafting a positive online environment, you can reclaim your social media experience, turning it into a source of joy and connection rather than anxiety and pressure.
Establishing Healthy Boundaries with Social Media
Setting Limits on Usage
With the addictive nature of these platforms, it's easy to lose track of time and slip into patterns that can exacerbate anxiety and stress. Setting clear guidelines helps make your social media experience manageable instead of overwhelming. Here are some effective strategies to set limits on your social media usage:
Designate Specific Times: Choose specific times to use social media during the day. For instance, limit your usage to 30 minutes in the morning and 30 minutes in the evening.
Use Screen Time Trackers: Many smartphones now have tracker features that show how much time you spend on different apps. Set alerts to help you stay within your limits.
Turn Off Notifications: Constant notifications can distract you from other activities. Turning them off can help you resist the urge to check in every few minutes.
Create Social Media “Free Zones”: Identify areas in your home or specific times (like during meals) when social media is off-limits. This strategy can help you reconnect with loved ones and be present in the moment.
Balancing Online and Offline Activities
Balancing online and offline activities can help establish a healthier relationship with social media. It allows you to nurture real-life connections and engage in fulfilling experiences beyond the digital realm. To find this balance, consider:
Pursuing Hobbies: Engage in activities you’re passionate about, whether painting, hiking, or playing sports. Pursuing hobbies can provide a satisfying break from social media.
Setting Regular Social Engagements: Make plans with friends or family that require your full attention, such as game nights, coffee catch-ups, or outdoor adventures.
Practising Mindfulness: Incorporate mindfulness practices into your daily routine. Even short morning meditation sessions can help you start the day grounded and focused.
Recap of Impact of Social Media on Anxiety
Undoubtedly, social media has left a profound mark on our lives, especially concerning our mental health. The anxiety triggered by constant online comparison, the fear of missing out (FOMO), and the pressure to present a perfect image can result in a vicious cycle of dissatisfaction and stress. As we’ve explored throughout this discussion, increased usage tends to amplify these feelings:
Comparison Trap: Users often compare their lives against the curated highlights of others, leading to feelings of inadequacy.
FOMO: The worry about missing out can drive the compulsive need to check social media constantly, further exacerbating anxiety.
Isolation: Despite being designed to foster connection, heavy social media usage can lead to loneliness and worsen mental health issues.
As noted, these effects can also manifest in other ways—poor self-esteem, increased sadness, and even patterns of disordered eating are prevalent among heavy users.
Encouragement for Healthy Social Media Habits
Here are a few encouraging strategies to cultivate a healthier online experience:
Set Boundaries: Designate specific times for social media use, just as you would for meals or sleep.
Mindfulness Practices: Engage with social media intentionally. Take breaks when things become overwhelming and focus on uplifting content.
Seek Support: If you find social media negatively impacting your mental health, consider talking to friends, family, or professionals who can offer guidance.
Remember, the ultimate goal is balance. When used mindfully, social media can be a source of inspiration and connection. Prioritise real-life interactions and activities that truly enrich your life, and don’t hesitate to step back from the screen when needed!
Meet Your Clinical Psychologists In Newcastle
Dr Emma Doolan is a Clinical Psychologist based in Newcastle. With a collaborative and evidence-based approach, she helps clients overcome various challenges such as anxiety, depression, stress, and trauma.
Emma is experienced in cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and other modalities like schema therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and compassion-focused therapy. She holds a PhD in clinical psychology and has completed her registration as a clinical psychologist from AHPRA. Emma is a member of several professional associations, including ACPA, APS, AACBT, and APN.
Paige Cornell is a clinical psychologist in Newcastle who has experience in therapeutic modalities such as Motivational Interviewing, CBT, Schema Therapy, DBT, and ACT. She focuses on building a solid therapeutic relationship and tailoring treatment to each individual. Paige has experience in private practice, NGOs, and forensic settings.
She works with a diverse range of mental health issues, including anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD, relationship problems, substance abuse, and offending behaviours. Paige is particularly interested in helping LGBTQI+ individuals and those dealing with trauma and substance abuse. She is fully registered and endorsed as a clinical psychologist and a board-approved supervisor for psychologists. Paige is a member of ACPA and APS, holding a Master's in Clinical Psychology and a Bachelor's in Psychological Science (Honours).
Taylah Armstrong is a Clinical Psychologist in Newcastle. She focuses on developing solid therapeutic relationships to assist individuals in enhancing their well-being and achieving their goals. Taylah is skilled in treating various concerns such as anxiety, stress, mood disorders, trauma, and eating disorders.
She utilises evidence-based therapies like CBT, DBT, and ACT. Taylah has worked in public healthcare, primary care, and education sectors. She is fully registered and endorsed as a clinical psychologist by AHPRA and holds a Master's and Bachelor's degree in Psychology from the University of Newcastle.
Paige Whitfield is a clinical psychologist in Newcastle with experience in private and public health settings. She collaborates with health professionals, families, and schools to provide evidence-based treatments like CBT, Narrative Therapy, and ACT for various issues. Paige has a Bachelor's degree in Psychology (Honours) and a Master's in Clinical Psychology. She is fully registered and endorsed as a clinical psychologist and is a member of APS and ACPA.
Dr Kaitlin Fitzgerald is a clinical psychologist in Newcastle who takes a collaborative and client-centred approach to therapy. She creates a warm and relaxed environment for clients, aiming to make therapy sessions comfortable and even enjoyable. Kaitlin holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Clinical Psychology and a Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) from the University of Newcastle. In addition to her private practice at ELD Psychology, she also works in public mental health treating adults with various mental health issues.
Kaitlin has experience working with a wide range of concerns, such as anxiety, depression, and relationship difficulties. She is skilled in evidence-based therapies like CBT, Schema Therapy, DBT, and ACT. Kaitlin is fully registered as a clinical psychologist with AHPRA and is approved to supervise provisional and registered psychologists.
Eliza Newton is a person-centred Clinical Psychologist dedicated to helping clients explore their deeper selves. She tailors her approach to each client, using psychodynamic therapy for self-exploration or structured techniques like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, and Schema Therapy. Eliza focuses on individuals overcoming childhood trauma, including Complex PTSD, and helps those with ADHD develop organisational and emotional well-being strategies. With experience in private practice, inpatient settings, and psychiatric rehabilitation, she addresses challenges from anxiety and mood disorders to severe mental illness.
Eliza holds a Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) from the University of Newcastle and a Master of Clinical Psychology from Western Sydney University. She is registered as a Clinical Psychologist with AHPRA and is a member of AAPi and ACPA.
Disclaimer
The content provided on this blog is intended for Australian audiences and is for informational purposes only. It should not be considered as professional psychological advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The information shared here is based on general knowledge and experience in the field of psychology, but it may not be applicable to your specific situation.
Always seek the advice of your psychologist or other qualified mental health provider with any questions you may have regarding a psychological condition or treatment. Never disregard professional psychological advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this blog.
If you are in crisis or you think you may have an emergency, call your doctor, or dial 000 immediately. This blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
The opinions expressed in this blog are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of any affiliated organisations or institutions.