Is Social Media a Downer?

Another university study is coming out against constant engagement with social media.  

The University of Michigan has released their findings that state "those who use social networks constantly feel a decline in overall well-being and positive state of mind.  The research also found that the more time participants spent on sites like Facebook, the worse they felt."  SMH.

Some may equate this I got the blues syndrome with past generations of merely keeping up with the Johnson or Jones family.  Some of us watched Mr. Johnson get a ride mower or a snow blower and you (or your dad) had to watch him zip around his yard.  He also had the first dvd player.  Is it envy?  The grass at the Johnson’s home did seem always greener.

In 2004, there were grumblings from various psychologists and teachers who spoke of dying personal communications as Facebook, Myspace, Twitter, and Smartphones all scrambled for our attention.  You listened and engaged by the millions.   Guilty.   

But has anti-social social media done something sinister to us internally?  Was there cause for concern?

I’m not even considering the bullying, suicide, privacy, crime, or relationship issues that have recently been newsworthy.  I’m talking about you, the individual.  The end user.  

How do you truly feel before and after your green dot is logged off?  Green with envy?  Blue with sadness?  The dots on your right column are waiting.

Comments welcome.