Navigating Teen Anxiety in the Age of Social Media

The first day of school used to be about simple excitement—sharpening pencils, packing your backpack with the latest school supplies, and bonding over these shared experiences with friends. But with the rise of social media and constant exposure to trends, teens now face a different kind of pressure. For example, teenage girls may feel the need to have their makeup professionally done the night before just to show up at school "on-trend". The days of teen-focused shops like Limited Too are gone, replaced by the influence of platforms like TikTok Shop. As the pressures of adulthood creep in earlier than ever, how can teens manage the anxiety of living up to these often unrealistic standards?

Social media has amplified unrealistic beauty standards, with young adults, as young as 19, opting for fillers —treatments that were once reserved for older demographics. Teens today are comparing themselves to influencers with perfectly curated feeds, promoting an unattainable lifestyle filled with the latest gadgets and trends. However, many teens don’t realize that influencers are often paid to promote this lifestyle, which may not be as real as it seems.
For example, what looks like a mansion owned by a single influencer is often shared with roommates, and private jets are frequently used as photoshoot sets. In Los Angeles, for instance, private jet studios can be rented for as little as $34.99 per hour on platforms like Peerspace. These 'luxury' images are staged to sell a fantasy, creating pressure for teens to live up to these false standards.

How Can Teens Navigate This?
It’s important for teens to take steps to protect their mental health and well-being while using social media. Here are some actionable steps parents can encourage their teens to take:

1. Set limits on screen time to reduce overexposure to unrealistic comparisons.
2. Curate a positive and supportive social media feed by following accounts that inspire and uplift.
3. Focus on hobbies and activities outside of social media to build confidence and self-worth.
4. Practice mindfulness and relaxation techniques to reduce stress and anxiety.
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In addition to these steps, seeking the guidance of a mental health professional can be extremely helpful for teens struggling with social media pressure. The Feeling Space is here to support you and your family.

Take the first step and reach out.

• Email: [email protected]
• Phone: (424) 274-0518
• Website: TheFeelingSpace.me

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