Social connection can lead to isolation.

 

Social connection can lead to isolation.

23/11/2020

Ella Sanderson

 

 

Over 4.57 Billion people use the internet today, so what does this mean for you?

The digital world is an immense and daunting place. In 2017, statistics indicated that 1 in 5 Australian children under the age of 18 were socially excluded, threatened, or abused online (Australian Government, 2017). Social media is used to form connection with family, friends and influencers but it can also cause people to feel isolated.

 

90% of teens have a social media account but 33% report feeling pressured into getting these apps (AACAP, 2018). I love social media because it is a place where you can create a digital connection with people across the globe. But many people who post on social media only illustrate the sunny side to their life, they don’t show when they failed a class or have had a bad day. They are showing their viewers what they think everyone wants to see. Seeing an endless stream of enviable images of other people’s ‘perfect’ lives can negatively impact mental health.

You could be thinking “it is my life not theirs”, people become isolated due to exclusion. People also isolate themselves because of social media’s damaging influence on body image, Celebrities such as Lili Reinhart are calling out this poor behaviour but many magazines and modelling agencies airbrush and photoshop celebrities to make look ‘perfect’.  By encouraging this and photoshop takes an awful toll on society’s mental health. In 2018 3,046 people committed suicide in Australia making it the leading cause of death for young people (Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 2020). Isolation, depression, anxiety, and hopelessness are huge factors in why people feel the need to end their lives. But let’s be real, no one is perfect. Not to sound clichéd, but it’s what’s on the inside that counts.

 

Respect for human dignity is essential when navigating the hazardous world of social media. This includes understanding that no one should be treated disrespectfully. By having respect for the feelings of others, you are making sure that everyone is cared for. By doing this we ensure that the world is just as God made it.

 

In September 2020, a video began trending over social media which showed an unfortunate man committing suicide by firearm. The video was livestreamed on Facebook at thoughtlessly shared without consideration for human dignity.  Parents stopped their children going on social media until officials took it down but many still saw the tragic event and their mental health was impacted. Catholic social teachings (CST) were ignored as the people who shared this appalling video have not considered human dignity and the life-long impacts on vulnerable children.

 

The Pope believes that the internet and social media is a gift from God but it must be used kindly and effectively (Toor, 2014). This may be through being an activist for those who do not have a voice. In 2018, the Pope spoke about the effect of fake news and how its ability to mimic real news makes it seem plausible. His warning teaches us that we must be careful about discerning fact from fiction in the digital world.

 

 

‘Making it real’, a social justice statement from the Australian Catholic Bishop’s Conference, addresses issues that are pivotal when being kind and safe online.

“Make your online presence one of dignity and respect.” Remember, people are worth more than things and by connecting with them in a compassionate manner you are displaying the CST of human dignity.  

“Take care of yourself and others.” Go out and protect the poor and vulnerable by standing up for their rights. We must undertake self-care and be responsible for our own mental health. Love yourself, have a positive body image and nurture positive relationships.

 “We are called to be citizens of the digital world.” As citizens of this earth, we look towards the good Samaritan for our inspiration. We must be kind to all to all of those on this earth which God has created and demonstrate equality, support, and listen to those who are struggling (Australian Catholic Bishops Conference , 2019). Social media has enabled the connection of ‘neighbours’ throughout the world. By having an online presence which respects the cultures of others you are listening to the teaching of Fratelli Tutti (Vatican Council, 2020).  

By opening your mouth with kindness, you are loving your neighbour. The church encourages us to use social media to connect with people worldwide. Human flourishing is enabled when society understands and acts on the Pope’s message.

 

Please remember that your digital footprint can never be erased and be cautious about what you post, like and share. If you feel isolated, talk to a parent or friend as it will help you get the issue off your chest. Leave a comment below if you have experienced isolation and how you dealt with it.

 

 

Links

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Lifeline- Lifeline Australia - 13 11 14 - Crisis Support. Suicide Prevention.

☎ 13 11 14

Beyond blue- Anxiety, depression and suicide prevention support - Beyond Blue

☎ 1300 22 4636