Psych Week 2024 alt class examines socmed influence on body image and mental health
By: Arvin Dollosa
The UST Department of Psychology and the UST Psychology Society held an alternative class discussing the impacts of social media on body image and mental health at the Pedrosa Hall, Main Building, on February 22, 2024, as part of this year's Psychology Week.
Third-year Psychology student Ms. Alexandra Mariela Tan's opening remarks called for future psychology practitioners to be educated about social issues, particularly concerning social media and how it fosters unrealistic body standards. "Every person is unique," a positive insight she declared.
Guest speaker Ms. Melissa Engel of Mindful Media Matters, introduced the mission of her organization: to hold a safe space for diverse individuals as they gain awareness and knowledge on challenging the harmful stereotypes perpetuated by social media.
Ms. Engel noted that "... High expectations for [oneself] fueled by social media," fosters mental health issues, such as depression, eating disorders, and anxiety, according to studies. She further discussed the unrealistic standards of life, where one portrays oneself in the opposite light, which is evident in social media posts.
However, she mentioned one definite positive impact of social media. "During the pandemic, [social media] was able to help individuals stay connected with their loved ones," fulfilling the need for a sense of belonging in those difficult times.
To prevent oneself from becoming a victim of the harmful influences of social media, Ms. Engel highlighted the need to set boundaries and limitations to digital screen time. "Be aware of your purpose," she mentioned while encouraging the audience to be mindful and establish purposeful engagement, whether in seeking information, connection, or entertainment.
"Quality interactions over quantity," the guest speaker advised when curating feed towards positive content and intentionally disconnecting regularly to prioritize real-world interactions without the distraction of social media.
During the Q&A portion, Ms. Engel discussed the dependency and regulatory use of social media, teaching digital literacy to younger generations, experiencing personal insecurities, forming genuine connections in real life, normalizing harmful plastic surgeries, and advocating for “body neutrality,” or appreciating our physical flaws.
In his closing remarks, Internal Vice President of the UST Psychology Society Mr. Enrick Noel Orajay called for active engagement in the meaningful use of social media, whether as a communication channel or an information medium. "Advocate for safe spaces," he said, while at the same time learning our beneficial roles towards society.
