Why do I hate myself after an hour on TikTok?
Feeling down or even self-loathing after spending time on social media, especially platforms like TikTok, is a common experience. This often stems from comparing your own life to curated, often unrealistic, portrayals of others' lives. The constant stream of seemingly perfect content can lead to feelings of inadequacy and dissatisfaction with your own circumstances.
A 2018 study published in the Journal of Social and Clinical Psychology found a direct causal link between time spent on social media and increased feelings of depression and loneliness.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why does TikTok make me feel bad about myself?▾
TikTok's algorithm often shows highly curated, aspirational content that can create an illusion of widespread perfection. This constant exposure to seemingly ideal lives, bodies, or achievements can naturally lead to unfavorable self-comparison and a diminished sense of self-worth.
Is it normal to feel worse after using social media?▾
Yes, it is quite normal for many people to feel worse after extended social media use. Research consistently shows a link between increased screen time on platforms like TikTok and higher rates of anxiety, depression, and body image issues due to comparison and fear of missing out.
How can I stop feeling bad after using TikTok?▾
To combat negative feelings, try setting time limits for TikTok, diversifying your feed to include more realistic or uplifting content, and actively engaging in offline activities that bring you genuine joy and connection. Focusing on your own progress and values, rather than external comparisons, can also be very helpful.
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