Missed this month’s Insta Dump? Good: Study reveals mental health risks behind frequent posting

Have monthly dump posts turned you into a frequent social media poster? For those unaware, a social media ‘dump’ is a collection of multiple incidental photos shared in a carousel format. The compulsive desire to share your OOTD (outfit of the day), photogenic skies or even your homemade brownies is real. This regular posting may seem like a healthy way to create a social presence with your followers, but your mental health may not be the best because of it.

A study published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research found an association between frequent social media posting and higher risks of poor mental health. Researchers took an in-depth look at different types of social media users and how their usage behavior affects their mental health.

Also read: Selfies and FOMO: Why are self-centered people on social media?

More danger from posters active on social media!

Lead author, Dr Ruth Plackett, said, “These findings suggest that ‘active’ social media use activities, particularly posting, may have a more significant impact on mental health than ‘passive’ use such as viewing content “

Users who post extensively on social media are at greater risk of harm to their mental health than users who scroll passively. It seems like doomscrolling got a really bad reaction when it clearly hides a more harmful habit. Researchers described how active engagement, like regular posting, on social media makes users more concerned about their followers’ interactions with it. This creates anxiety in anticipation of negative reactions, whether in the form of reduced engagement or negative comments.

Also read: Impact of social media on mental health of teenagers

More information about research

The study examined data from more than 15,000 adults aged 16 and over, collected through the UK longitudinal survey ‘Understanding Society’. Study participants were also asked questions on topics that indicated underlying mental health issues, such as sleep, concentration or feeling stressed. Higher scores revealed higher levels of mental distress. Social media users who posted regularly had higher scores than those who rarely or never posted and only used social media to view content. The researchers advocated developing a conscious relationship with social media. Healthy social media habits will reduce the crisis.

So the next time, you feel afraid of not posting your monthly dump, think again, is it really worth it?

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions you may have about a medical condition.