124: Kristen Carney | Why Depression Isn't Just Your Own Battle

Social Media

Social media's addictive nature can subtly impact mental health, as Jordan Harbinger and Kristen Carney discuss. They highlight how frequent exposure to curated online personas can lead to feelings of inadequacy and dissatisfaction. Kristen shares an impactful moment when a friend, despite having 90,000 followers, expressed a desire for more, illustrating the insatiable nature of social media validation 1.

We can be the ones winning on Instagram and making the people jealous and you're still going to feel sad.

--- Kristen Carney

The conversation also touches on how the Internet has paradoxically increased both awareness and the need for acceptance of mental health issues 2.

   

Comparison & FOMO

The pervasive nature of social media fosters a culture of comparison and fear of missing out (FOMO), exacerbating feelings of inadequacy. Jordan notes that even those content with their lives can feel inferior when comparing themselves to others online 3. This constant comparison can lead to a negative spiral, where even trivial differences, like someone else's meal, can trigger dissatisfaction.

There's infinite variety comes infinite ways to be jealous or feel like you're failing.

--- Jordan Harbinger

Additionally, Kristen emphasizes the importance of having a support system, suggesting that people are often more willing to help than we assume 4.