About instagram

Instagram is a social networking app made for sharing photos and videos from a smartphone.

Addiction to instagram, a “real” addiction?

Officially an addiction?

First, let’s have a look to the DSM-5,the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. Does it includes instagram addiction?

There is no formal diagnosis of “Instagram addiction” in the DSM-5. However, some mental health professionals may consider excessive use of social media, including Instagram, to be a symptom of other underlying mental health conditions, such as anxiety or depression.

So what means “instagram addiction”?

Instagram addiction can be defined as a condition in which a person becomes obsessed with using the Instagram app. This can lead to them spending hours on the app every day, often to the detriment of their work, school, or social life. In severe cases, it can even lead to people becoming isolated and withdrawn from the real world.

What is considered instagram addiction?

• 1. You can’t go more than an hour without checking Instagram.
• 2. You spend more time on Instagram than you do talking to people in person.
• 3. You get anxious or irritable when you’re not able to check Instagram.
• 4. You’ve missed important events because you were too busy scrolling through your feed.
• 5. You check Instagram first thing in the morning and last thing before you go to bed.
• 6. You feel like you need to take pictures of everything you do to post on Instagram.
• 7. You’ve posted more than 10 pictures of yourself in the last week.
• 8. You frequently compare your life to others’ lives that you see on Instagram.
• 9. You’ve posted more than 50 pictures in the last month.
• 10. You feel like you can’t enjoy something unless you’re able to share it on Instagram.

How much instagram is too much?

There is no definitive answer to this question as it varies from person to person. Some people may find that spending a few hours on Instagram is perfectly fine, while others may feel that it is excessive and start to feel negative effects after only spending a short amount of time on the app. It is important to be aware of how you feel after using Instagram and to make sure that it is not negatively impacting your life in any way. If you find that you are spending too much time on Instagram, or that it is causing you anxiety or depression, it may be best to limit your use of the app or take a break from it altogether.

Some Social media addiction facts & statistics

According to a 2019 study by the Pew Research Center, around 72% of American adults use social media. However, the statistics on social media addiction vary depending on the source and the definition of addiction. Here are a few statistics:

– A 2018 study by the Royal Society for Public Health found that Instagram was the most harmful social media platform for mental health, with young people experiencing anxiety, depression, and poor body image due to the platform.
– A 2019 survey by the Center for Humane Technology found that 60% of Americans consider themselves addicted to their mobile devices, with social media being a significant contributor to this addiction.
– A 2019 survey by Common Sense Media found that 59% of U.S. teens felt that social media made them feel more anxious or depressed, and 43% felt pressure to only post content that makes them look good.
– A 2018 study published in the Journal of Social and Clinical Psychology found that limiting social media use to 30 minutes per day resulted in significant reductions in anxiety and depression symptoms in young adults.

While these statistics suggest that social media addiction is a real concern, it’s important to note that not everyone who uses social media experiences addiction or negative effects on their mental health.

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Is the instagram addiction widespread?

Studies have shown that social media addiction, including Instagram, is a growing concern. It can affect people’s mental health, sleep patterns, and overall well-being. According to a survey by the Royal Society for Public Health in the UK, Instagram is ranked as the worst social media platform for mental health and well-being. Therefore, it is essential to use social media in moderation and take breaks when needed to maintain a healthy balance.

Why is instagram so addictive?

Some experts believe that Instagram is addictive because it triggers the same part of the brain that is activated by drugs and alcohol. When people use Instagram, they get a rush of dopamine, which is a feel-good chemical. This can make people feel happy and crave more of the same.

Possible causes of instagram dependency

There is no one single cause of Instagram addiction. However, some factors that may contribute to the development of an addiction to Instagram include:

-A need for approval or validation from others
-A need to feel connected to others
-A need to feel popular or important
-Low self-esteem
-A history of addiction or other mental health disorders

Signs & Symptoms of instagram addiction

Now let’s see if you have the instagram addiction problem.

• 1. You spend more time on Instagram than you do on any other social media platform.
• 2. You have more than one Instagram account.
• 3. You are constantly checking your Instagram feed.
• 4. You post multiple times a day.
• 5. You have a large number of followers.
• 6. You frequently like and comment on other people’s photos.
• 7. You spend a lot of time curating your own feed.

What are some benefits of instagram

Some advantages of Instagram are that it can help you connect with friends and family, share photos and experiences, and stay up-to-date on current events.

Additionally, Instagram can be a great way to discover new products, services, and businesses.But at the opposite, what can be some instagram addiction problems addicts suffer from?

general health problems

There is no definitive answer to this question as the effects of Instagram on one’s health will vary from person to person. Some people may find that using Instagram helps them to connect with friends and family, which can boost their mood and overall sense of wellbeing. Others may find that looking at other people’s photos and comparing their own lives to others can lead to feelings of anxiety and low self-esteem. Ultimately, it is up to the individual to decide whether the positives or negatives of using Instagram outweigh the other.

instagram and sleep disorder

Excessive use of electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, and computers before bed can interfere with the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle and lead to sleep problems. The blue light emitted by these devices can suppress the production of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep, making it harder to fall asleep and stay asleep.

Additionally, the constant stimulation and engagement with social media can also contribute to stress and anxiety, which can further disrupt sleep. It is recommended to limit screen time before bed and establish a relaxing bedtime routine to promote healthy sleep habits.

instagram affecting your brain & mental health: bad for brain and mental health?

Some effects of instagram on your brain

• 1. You lose track of time.
• 2. You become more self-conscious.
• 3. You compare yourself to others.
• 4. You start to believe that everyone’s life is perfect except yours.
• 5. You become addicted to the validation you get from likes and comments.
• 6. You become obsessed with taking the perfect photo.
• 7. You start to edit your life to make it look more exciting.
• 8. You become less present in the moment.
• 9. You miss out on real life experiences.
• 10. You end up feeling disappointed and empty.

Some effects of instagram on your mental health

While Instagram can be a great way to connect with friends and family, share experiences, and document memories, it can also have a negative impact on your mental health. Studies have shown that extended use of social media, including Instagram, can lead to increased levels of anxiety, depression, and loneliness.

One of the main ways Instagram negatively affects mental health is by causing users to compare themselves to others. When you scroll through your feed, you’re likely to see pictures of people who seem to be living perfect lives. This can lead you to compare your own life to those you see on Instagram, and feel like you’re falling short.

Instagram can also cause FOMO, or the fear of missing out. You may see posts about fun events that you weren’t invited to, or pictures of friends hanging out without you. This can make you feel left out and isolated.

Spending too much time on Instagram can also lead to “zombie scrolling”, where you mindlessly scroll through your feed without really paying attention to what you’re seeing. This can make you feel even more disconnected from the world around you.

If you find that Instagram is affecting your mental health in a negative way, it’s important to take a break from the app. Spend time outside, with friends, or doing activities that make you happy. Remember that the people you see on Instagram are only sharing a small part of their lives – everyone has ups and downs.

Does instagram cause stress and anxiety?

Yes, Instagram can cause stress or anxiety for some people. Here are a few reasons why:

• 1. Comparison: Instagram is a platform where people often display their best selves and their most curated moments. This can lead to feelings of inadequacy and comparison for some people.
• 2. Fear of missing out (FOMO): Instagram is often used to showcase exciting events and experiences, which can make people feel like they are missing out on something.
• 3. Cyberbullying: Instagram, like other social media platforms, can be a breeding ground for cyberbullying. Negative comments and messages can cause stress and anxiety for those targeted.
• 4. Addiction: Spending too much time on Instagram can lead to addiction, which can cause stress and anxiety as people become fixated on the platform.

It’s important to be mindful of how Instagram affects your mental health and take steps to manage it if necessary. This could include limiting your time on the app, unfollowing accounts that make you feel bad, or taking breaks from social media altogether.

Can instagram addiction lead to sadness and depression?

Yes, excessive use of Instagram or any social media platform can lead to feelings of sadness and depression. Instagram addiction can lead to a decrease in real-life social interactions, feelings of isolation, and a distorted sense of reality. Constantly comparing oneself to others on the platform can also lead to feelings of inadequacy and lower self-esteem.

Additionally, spending too much time on Instagram can lead to neglecting important responsibilities and activities, which can further contribute to feelings of sadness and depression.

Dopamine and instagram

Instagram is a social media platform that allows users to share photos and videos with their followers. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that is associated with pleasure and reward in the brain.

Studies have shown that social media use, including Instagram, can activate the brain’s reward system and release dopamine. This can create a sense of pleasure and satisfaction, which can lead to addiction-like behavior.

The constant scrolling, liking, and commenting on Instagram can also create a sense of validation and social connection, further reinforcing the release of dopamine.

However, excessive use of social media, including Instagram, has been linked to negative mental health outcomes such as anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem.

It is important to use Instagram and other social media platforms in moderation and be aware of the potential impact it can have on our mental and emotional well-being.

instagram effects on Focus, productivity, attention span, academic performance…

Yes, Instagram can affect focus, productivity, attention span, and academic performance in various ways. Here are some possible ways:

• 1. Distraction: Instagram is designed to be addictive and can be a major distraction from important tasks. It can lead to reduced focus and productivity if one spends too much time scrolling through their feed or browsing Instagram stories.
• 2. Comparison: Instagram often portrays a curated and idealized version of people’s lives, which can lead to feelings of inadequacy and comparison. These negative emotions can affect attention span and academic performance.
• 3. Sleep deprivation: Scrolling through Instagram late at night can disrupt sleep patterns and affect cognitive performance the next day.
• 4. Social pressure: Instagram can create social pressure to maintain a certain image or persona, which can be stressful and affect academic performance.
• 5. Information overload: Instagram can be overwhelming with an abundance of information, which can lead to reduced attention span and difficulty processing information.

Overall, it’s essential to use Instagram in moderation and prioritize important tasks to avoid negative effects on focus, productivity, attention span, and academic performance.

A word about ADHD and instagram

People with ADHD may interact differently with Instagram depending on their symptoms and coping mechanisms. Some people with ADHD may find Instagram to be a source of distraction, leading to difficulty in focusing on other tasks. Others may find Instagram to be a helpful tool for managing their symptoms, such as providing a visual and interactive way to organize their thoughts and ideas.

In addition, people with ADHD may be more likely to impulsively post or comment on Instagram without considering the consequences, which can sometimes lead to negative interactions or social media addiction. However, with proper self-awareness and management strategies, people with ADHD can use Instagram effectively and enjoyably like anyone else.

affecting your relationships

instagram and self-esteem

Instagram can affect self-esteem in several ways:

• 1. Comparison: Instagram often displays only the best moments of people’s lives. This can lead to a constant comparison of one’s life with others, which can negatively affect self-esteem.
• 2. Unrealistic expectations: The images on Instagram can create unrealistic expectations of beauty, body image, and lifestyle. These expectations can lead to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem.
• 3. Social validation: Instagram fosters a culture of likes, comments, and followers. The number of likes and followers can become a measure of self-worth, leading to low self-esteem if the numbers are low.
• 4. Cyberbullying: Instagram can be a platform for cyberbullying, which can have a severe impact on self-esteem.

Overall, Instagram can affect self-esteem both positively and negatively, depending on how it is used. It is essential to be mindful of the impact of social media on our mental health and to use it in a way that promotes a positive self-image.

instagram addiction leads to isolation and loneliness?

Yes, Instagram addiction can lead to isolation and loneliness. When individuals become addicted to Instagram, they may spend excessive amounts of time scrolling through their feeds or posting pictures and videos. This can lead to neglecting face-to-face interactions with friends and family, which can result in social isolation.

Additionally, Instagram addiction can create a false sense of connection and validation through likes and comments. When individuals become overly reliant on this digital validation, they may feel lonely and disconnected when they are not receiving it.

In extreme cases, Instagram addiction can also lead to anxiety and depression, which can further exacerbate feelings of loneliness and social isolation.

Effects of instagram on your relationship

Positive effects:

• 1. Improved communication: Instagram allows couples to communicate with each other more frequently and easily through direct messaging and video calls, which helps strengthen their relationship.
• 2. Sharing happy moments: Couples can share their happy moments and memories on Instagram, which can make them feel more connected and emotionally closer.
• 3. Increased trust: Instagram can help build trust in a relationship by allowing couples to share their daily activities and whereabouts with each other.
• 4. Discovering common interests: Instagram can help couples discover common interests and hobbies, which can lead to more shared experiences and deeper connection.

Negative effects:

• 1. Comparing relationships: Instagram can create unrealistic expectations and lead to comparing one’s relationship with others, causing unnecessary stress and tension in the relationship.
• 2. Jealousy and mistrust: Instagram can also lead to jealousy and mistrust if one partner follows or interacts with other attractive or flirtatious accounts.
• 3. Over-reliance on social media: Couples may become overly reliant on social media for communication and validation, leading to a lack of genuine connection and intimacy.
• 4. Privacy concerns: Posting too much personal information on Instagram can lead to privacy concerns, especially if the relationship ends and personal information is shared publicly.

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Finally you think you are addicted to instagram and you are wondering how to quit it? How to break and overcome your cravings for instagram?

Here are the best solutions, steps, supports, resources and help you can get to treat your instagram addiction.

Main steps and solutions to break the instagram addiction

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. However, some tips to help reduce Instagram addiction include being mindful of the time spent on the app, setting limits on usage, and diversifying one’s social media diet.

Additionally, it may be helpful to find other activities to occupy time that would otherwise be spent on Instagram.
Actually, that’s what most documentation out there is about… However, quitting a digital addiction can be a bit trickier than that.

So our team, after testing many ways, designed a bulletproof way to overcome them. Here are some clear and practical steps that are very powerful to quit a digital addiction, including instagram:

1. Purge temptations: Get rid of instagram

First, cleaning your life from temptations is much easier than resisting to them. Disable or delete your instagram accounts, change the password and hide it somewhere you can’t access easily, keep your phone / computer far away… Out of sight out of mind.

Here is a video from our course the The Digital Purge. on how to add resistance to your temptations, so you become so lazy to engage with them that you give them up:

More of the Digital Purge