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I have read many blog posts online about how being on social media can help alleviate depression, especially among the elderly. The other flip side of the coin is that social media can increase depression, especially during the holidays. How? Well, what about other Facebook "friends" post pictures of their holidays and claim they had the best holidays. This can cause of feeling of worthiness among those who did not have these experiences. What do you think?

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As pointed out, social media can help reduce isolation for some people (for example older adults who use it to keep in touch), and it can also make others feel worse through social comparison. Evidence from psychology and public‑health reviews shows this is not a simple yes/no answer: outcomes depend on how people use platforms. Active, supportive interactions tend to be neutral or helpful, while passive scrolling and upward comparison are linked to worse mood. See the American Psychological Association's overview for a concise summary of the mixed evidence and mechanisms (APA: Social media and mental health).

Practical, low-effort steps to reduce holiday- and comparison-related harm:

  • Limit passive scrolling with timed app limits or scheduled breaks.
  • Curate the feed: mute or unfollow accounts that trigger envy, follow accounts that make you feel informed or connected.
  • Favor active contact: send messages, join small groups, or make short video calls instead of just viewing feeds.
  • Use platform tools (mute, close friends, privacy settings) to reduce noise.
  • Watch for patterns: if mood dips after certain types of posts, change exposure.

For older adults, the benefit often comes when social media is used for real interactions (video calls, small groups, hobby communities) rather than broadcast viewing. Keep privacy and scams in mind, and consider teaching or setting up simplified routines for less tech-savvy people.

A final caution: most studies are observational and cannot prove social media causes depression; people who are already feeling down may also use social media differently. If low mood is persistent or severe, follow evidence-based mental health guidance such as resources from the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH: Depression) and seek professional help.

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