UAE: Excessive use of social media can lead to dissatisfaction, envy, say psychologists

UAE: Excessive use of social media can lead to dissatisfaction, envy, say psychologists

Residents spend more than eight and a half hours on the internet every day, nearly two hours more than the global average

Published: Sun 18 Sep 2022, 12:49 PM

Psychologists in the UAE say that real-world human interactions alleviate stress and make people feel happier, healthier, and more positive while spending hours on social media on Facebook, Instagram or WhatsApp could trigger a feeling of inadequacy.

They warned that excessive use of social media leads to a feeling of dissatisfaction and envy as people spending a lot of time browsing through their social media end up feeling as though their life or appearance does not compare favourably with that of others on social media.

Since human beings are social creatures that require the companionship of others to thrive in life, Dr Adnan Ahmadiazad, specialist in psychiatry, Thumbay Hospital Ajman and Thumbay University Hospital, says the strength of people’s connections has a huge impact on their mental health and happiness.

“Being socially connected to others can ease stress, anxiety, and depression, boost self-worth, provide comfort and joy, prevent loneliness, and even add years to your life,” says Dr Ahmadiazad.

According to a report issued by the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA), UAE residents spend more