Instagram and TikTok are very popular apps used all over the world. Many people spend time on social media applications to make use of their spare time. So how do these platforms affect human health?
In many previous studies, negative results were obtained about different platforms. Especially during the pandemic process, many health problems have emerged in connection with the fact that people spend more time on social media applications. A recent study came to some conclusions about the negative impact of TikTok and Instagram on people with eating disorders.
People with eating disorders should stay away from the internet
Jason Nagata, assistant professor of pediatrics at the University of California, San Francisco, treats teenagers hospitalized for eating disorders. It is seen that people with this disease share and follow diet programs on social media, even while they are in hospital. Nagata realized that this was starting to happen again.
The doctor says that people with eating disorders experience irregular eating and weight loss problems due to social media. Accordingly, he thinks that hospital staff may need to cut off the patient’s communication with social media.
Many social media platforms, such as Instagram and its parent company Meta, have been receiving a lot of negative criticism over the years for their content affecting people and causing health problems. The investigation launched earlier this year, the lawsuit filed on behalf of Instagram and Facebook, as well as the social media restrictions to be introduced in the UK, show the seriousness of the case.
Facebook documents leaked to The Wall Street Journal said that Instagram is making teens worry about their weight and appearance, making them feel unhappy. With the release of these documents, the company was sued and Mark Zuckerberg and Adam Mosseri were summoned to testify.
When people see filtered and photoshop perfect photos, they experience eating disorders due to not being at peace with themselves and dissatisfied with their weight. Frances Haugen touched upon these issues in her statements to the Bills and Exchange Commission. Afterwards, the statements were prepared and conveyed to the Congress.
What do you think about the effects of Instagram, TikTok and other social media applications like this on people? Is it possible for it to affect people with eating disorders badly? You can share your ideas with us in the comments.
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