There is a growing scientific controversy about the negative impact of social media on teenagers mental health, and even adults. Social media companies deny these claims. Billions of dollars are at stake.
A study from the University of Pennsylvania found using social media increases depression and loneliness:
https://penntoday.upenn.edu/news/social-media-use-increases-depression-and-loneliness
But a recent scientific study from Manchester University found that social media has no negative impact on mental health:
https://www.manchester.ac.uk/about/news/time-spent-on-gaming-and-social-media/
This contradicts another study from Harvard University that found a social media detox improves well-being and reduces anxiety:
What’s your opinion on this matter?
Just based on my personal vibes, I think social media is harmful if you’re doing it wrong. Most people are. If you allow Meta to manipulate your emotions with fear and hate, while developing an addiction at the same time, you’re not going to have a great time. Quitting that kind of toxic relationship will improve your life.
Mastodon was designed to be less addictive, and that’s why it’s a bit boring to most people. It takes special kind of dedication to get addicted to Mastodon, and I think the same applies to Lemmy as well.