Anxiety Archives - Centre of Healing Minds (CoHM)

Impact of Social Media on Mental Health

Not any age group is now away from the whirlwind of social media these days. While most people scroll through social media platforms for a bit of a break from the hum of daily life’s hum, some really get addicted to it, causing bigger trouble. However, beneath the surface of likes and shares lies a complex relationship with our mental health. Social media can also cast a long shadow on our well-being. This guide, we will talk about impact of Social Media on Mental Health and what can you do.

Lately, there has been a booming increase in the number of people using social media platforms. Not only that, but the number of hours spent on such media has also risen alarmingly. This affects the mental peace of the masses greatly. Social media and mental health are linked more and more. The consistent addition of short-form content to the mind that rather seeks a sense of calm creates havoc on the hormonal balance of the body and mind.

Here are effects of social media on mental health:

Comparison

Social media, especially Instagram and TikTok, is filled with influencers. On top of that, most people who are posting on such platforms would use filters and beautifying factors to showcase only one side of themselves. With this, normal users, especially those who are either teenagers with their brains still grasping the world, develop a sort of insecurity related to their appearance.

For example, a female body’s thinness has been emphasized so much that it is getting considered a ‘fitness standard.’ This not only puts pressure on people with bodies that don’t necessarily conform to any ‘type,’ it also encourages a false idea of health. Skinny shaming, fat shaming, and a gender bias increase with such trends. All of this makes it difficult for everyone to be at peace with themselves, harming their self-esteem.

Addiction to Short-form Content

An individual spending time on reels or YouTube shorts is the most common sight found these days in public places. Such content on social media platforms is a maximum of 6-10 minutes long. According to Statista, 5.24 billion, or 63.9 percent of the world’s population, were social media users (February 2025).

People start to find them addictive as watching such short-form content gives them a quick dopamine rush, and it becomes more and more difficult to stop the ‘doom scrolling.’ This is one of the social media addiction symptoms.

Curious about how social media may be impacting your mental well-being?

Take our free, confidential Mental Health Quiz to better understand where you stand. It only takes a few minutes and can help you reflect on patterns, emotions, and habits that may be affecting your daily life. No pressure—just a helpful first step toward feeling better.

Take a Free Test

Hinders Physical Activity, Encouraging Potential Obesity

Consistent usage of devices and social media keeps you stuck in one place. This can lead to a very sedentary lifestyle.

Exercising at least twice a week is proven to be very helpful for mental health. If one cannot do something as upbeat as aerobics or gym, even walking will help greatly. However, for that, one really needs to control the time and energy spent on social media. Over time, this sedentary behavior can lead to weight gain and increase the risk of obesity, particularly in teens and young adults who may already struggle with forming healthy habits. The irony here is, we watch fit people getting more fit through social media, while making ourselves unfit!

Reduces Concentration Span

A person who was able to read two books in a single day, week may lose their focus level enough to not stick to the book for even an hour, owing to Instagram reels and TikTok. Reportedly, social media causes a serious reduction in attention span. Children should keep away from the devices in order to maintain their mental capacities. Notably, according to research carried out by Northeastern University, the attention span of an average individual has decreased from 2 and a half minutes to only around 45 seconds owing to social media.

Unfortunately, with constant notifications, dopamine-reward cycles, and bite-sized content, social media trains the brain to seek quick hits of stimulation.

Causes Insomnia

Many of us decide to spend a few minutes online before smoothly falling asleep. However, it doesn’t happen at all. Actually using the screen exactly before sleeping time disrupts the sleep signal of the body.

The blue light emitted by screens can seriously mess with the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle (circadian rhythm). This hugely disturbs the sleep quality of a person, too. Sleep quality is directly related to mental health. Reduced hours of sleep, in addition to poor sleep, can trigger anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders. This is how social media and depression get into the same picture.

Lacks Real Human Connection

Social media tends to offer surface-level interaction. The whole platform depends on quick replies, emojis, and algorithm-driven visibility, rather than the deep, emotionally nourishing connection that comes from real-life interactions.

When virtual interactions replace face-to-face ones, it can lead to feelings of isolation, social anxiety, and in some cases, depression. Digital communication can’t replace the comfort of a real conversation, a hug, or simply being present with someone who truly listens. It is advisable to actually attend those friendly meet-ups while putting the phone aside and having wholehearted chats with people.

It isn’t the case that the whole existence of social media is evil. It’s rather helpful if you use it in a certain way and within limits. Your mental health matters, both online and off. And sometimes, logging off is the most powerful act of self-care.

Closing thought

In a world increasingly driven by digital interaction, understanding the impact of social media on our mental health is more crucial than ever. While these platforms can offer moments of connection, inspiration, and entertainment, unchecked use can quietly erode our well-being.

The key lies in mindful usage—setting healthy boundaries, taking digital detoxes, and prioritizing real-life relationships. Your mental peace is not worth sacrificing for endless scrolling. So the next time your thumb hovers over that app, ask yourself—*is this helping me feel better or just keeping me busy?* Choose wisely; your mind deserves it.

More Resources

Mental Health Commission of Canada – The Impact of Social Media on Youth Mental Health
Canadian Paediatric Society – Screen time and young children: Promoting health and development in a digital world
Statistics Canada – Use of social media and its association with mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic

Nov 5Apr 9

Managing Work-Related Anxiety Through Therapy in Mississauga

Know effective strategies for managing work-related anxiety.

Having difficulty with managing work-related anxiety? You are not alone. Anxiety is a complex psychological and physiological issue that can have both psychological and physiological effects. It is essential to learn how to take control of your anxious thoughts and manage your growing sense of anxiety. There are several services available to help individuals overcome anxiety, such as counseling for anxiety, managing conflict in relationships, and building self-esteem.

Some services for anxiety therapy, Mississauga, offer affordable sessions with qualified registered psychotherapists and offer support in dealing with conflict and building self-esteem. Change is possible, and isolation can worsen distressing or traumatizing situations. Having someone who remembers your strengths and supports you can shift painful feelings or distressing thoughts and change how you see yourself. Reaching out to people who can guide and support you on your healing journey is important.

At CoHM, our team of experienced therapists offers in-person and online anxiety counselling in Mississauga. They can address a range of anxiety disorders by developing a customized plan and using holistic treatment approaches. Search on the web with the keywords “anxiety counselling near me”, or call 647-779-9644.

Managing Work-Related Anxiety and Seeking Counseling or Therapy: Self-assessment

Anxiety has become extremely prevalent for those who work in a competitive atmosphere. To know if you need counseling therapy related to this, ask yourself the following questions and decide for yourself:

Do I get sporadic, unjustified panic attacks?
Do my issues appear like absolute realities because I overthink them?
Which conversations am I avoiding due to fear of seeming foolish and embarrassing myself?
Since worry keeps repeating old tales of rejection and condemnation, who am I not growing closer to?
How long would I like to continue living this way?
Do I experience sleepless evenings when I throw up in bed?
Am I more exhausted than at ease when I wake up?
Am I finding it impossible to concentrate on any big or small work?
Am I experiencing tingling in my arms or feet, chest pain, shortness of breath, or “random” and severe panic attacks?
Do I constantly suffer from stress and burnout, worry about everything, or am I irritable and grumpy?
After a social event, do I feel exhausted or depleted?
Am I experiencing “numb or paralyzed” feelings, sweating palms, and uncontrollable “tapping” or trembling?

Excessive worry, panic episodes, and fear often characterize anxiety. Remember, though these are general symptoms and self-assessment, it is important to consult a therapist to learn more about the issue and get clarity. People who are experiencing more than 8 symptoms above should get professional help.

Anxiety Counseling Mississauga: The Process

Determining the issue requiring treatment: In the first session, the issue is observed and comprehended by psychiatrists and psychotherapists to provide better treatment. For example, if medication is required, the therapist will refer the client to a psychiatrist. However, it is beneficial to consult a psychologist or psychotherapist if medication is not required.
Determining the optimal treatment plan: Different treatment regimens, such as medication or talk therapy, may be needed for different illnesses.
Timeline for improvement: There is no set time frame for improvement because mental health problems are complicated. When there are several issues, therapy becomes less predictable.
Providing feedback: If progress is lacking, discuss frustration with the treatment provider.

Online Anxiety Therapy

Anxiety is a natural response to threats, not a cure. Therapists work with individuals to create a treatment plan that includes symptoms and practical tools to manage and control anxiety. We can be your top choice for anxiety counseling and offer expertise, support, and evidence-based techniques to help individuals reclaim a sense of peace in their lives.

By implementing a proactive approach, individuals can embrace a more fulfilling life by effectively coping with anxiety. We provide online anxiety counselling, too, allowing individuals to develop the tools to cope with anxiety and regain a sense of peace effectively.

Types of Anxiety Therapy

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)

Trusted and effective treatment for anxiety.
Focuses on recognizing, comprehending, and improving a person’s thought process and behavior.
The client is actively involved in recovery.
Includes outside reading and homework assignments.
Successful treatment depends on the client’s willingness to use tools.

Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT)

Incorporates cognitive-behavioral techniques with meditation.
It combines individual therapy with group therapy to teach skills and mindfulness for interpersonal relationships.

Exposure Therapy

Used to reduce fear and anxiety responses.
Gradual exposure to a situation or object that increases fear or anxiety.
Effective for obsessive-compulsive disorder and phobias.

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

Directly affects the brain’s processing of information.
Reduces the intensity of upsetting or alarming thoughts.
Effective for PTSD and treating panic attacks and phobias.

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

Acceptance, mindfulness, commitment, and behavioral changes are used to cope with unwanted thoughts.
Develops skills to accept experiences and reframe them.

Anxiety can be managed through various methods, such as attending psychotherapy, changing diets, exercising, meditating, practicing yoga, or talking to a friend. However, the approach depends on the individual. If anxiety is affecting daily life and you feel lost, psychotherapy is a recommended treatment.

It’s also advisable to consult a family physician to monitor any contributing medical symptoms. Our professionals, especially for anxiety therapy in Mississauga, use evidence-based therapy modalities to provide the most effective treatment for anxiety. Contact us to get the most effective treatment possible.

Anxiety counseling helps and guides people to overcome their anxiety. Contact us to take control of your anxious thoughts with the help of CoHM therapists and counselors.

Sep 19Aug 14

The Benefits of Seeking Professional Anxiety Therapy in Mississauga

Globally, there is growing concern about mental health issues. For people looking for support and assistance for their mental health, there are now additional solutions available. Moreover, the stigma associated with mental health issues is changing. It is indisputable that treating anxiety, depression, and general mental health is important. However, the thought of getting expert assistance for anxiety therapy Mississauga might occasionally feel overwhelming. How can you decide if and when to get medical help from a professional? When is the ideal moment to get in touch? In addition, to whom should you ask for assistance?
Let’s examine the advantages of getting mental health assistance and the reasons it’s crucial to do so. After all, getting assistance is a crucial first step in looking after your mental health. You can also avail online anxiety therapy in Mississauga. Book your appointment online.

Advantages of Anxiety Counseling:

Here are the major benefits of undertaking anxiety counselling Mississauga:

1. Develop healthy coping mechanisms

In the context of professional anxiety counseling, licensed psychologists assist clients in creating useful coping strategies for anxiety management. For the purpose of relieving symptoms and maintaining general mental health, it is essential to learn how to deal with and overcome anxiety-related obstacles. Individuals can use tailored coping strategies to help them handle stressful situations and prevent anxiety from taking over. Acquiring these abilities—through mindfulness practices, cognitive-behavioral therapy, or other methods—will assist anyone who has anxiety in overcoming life’s challenges in a positive and healthy manner.

2. Improve Relationships

Counseling for anxiety can also help you and your relationships with others become better. Anxiety can affect how you interact with others around you and strain personal relationships.Therapy offers strategies for improving connection and communication while assisting patients in understanding how anxiety impacts their relationships.

3. Support Long-Term Recovery

Seeking counseling for anxiety can help promote persistent mental health gains and long-term rehabilitation. People who attend therapy on a regular basis acquire coping mechanisms, understanding of their anxiety, and stress management abilities. Over time, this continued support aids in maintaining improvement and preventing relapses. You can develop your resilience to future anxiety-inducing situations and achieve long-lasting relief from anxiety by treating your anxiety in a secure, encouraging setting.

4. Become More Conscious of Yourself

A skilled anxiety counselor promotes increased self-awareness. You can learn more about the patterns and anxiety triggers that affect your thoughts and behavior through therapy. This increased awareness helps you identify and deal with the root reasons of your anxiety, which improves anxiety management and fosters personal development.

5. Encourage Improved Sleep Habits

Sleep disturbances due to anxiety can result in a vicious cycle of high stress and little sleep. By providing cognitive tools to control racing thoughts and relaxation techniques, professional anxiety counseling can assist in solving sleep problems. Therapy-assisted improved sleep patterns greatly enhance general mental health and anxiety reduction, allowing you to wake up feeling rejuvenated and more capable of tackling everyday obstacles.

At CoHM, our therapists can provide guidance and new perspectives to help you deal with challenges and make positive changes in your life. Search for anxiety counselling near me or contact us at (647) 779-9644.

Who Should Take Anxiety Counseling?

Regardless of the level of their anxiety, everyone who struggles with it can greatly benefit by finding on the web for anxiety therapy near me. It is especially helpful for people who have ongoing anxiety, fear, or worry that interferes with their day-to-day activities.

The following important groups should think about getting counseling for anxiety:

Anxiety Disorder Sufferers: Individuals with specific anxiety disorders, such as panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, or generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), may find relief with therapy based on targeted strategies.
Individuals Challenging Relationship Problems: Personal connections can often be impacted by anxiety. In order to promote healthy relationships, counseling can help with conflict resolution and communication improvement.
Anybody Feeling Overwhelmed by Stress: Anxiety can worsen when stress levels are high. Building resilience and stress management are two benefits of counseling.

To conclude

Talking about mental health issues was frowned upon in the past, but it’s becoming more commonplace these days. The stigma associated with depression and online anxiety therapy is fading. Individuals of all ages actively seek out and get mental health assistance, as well as freely sharing their experiences with others.

Help-seeking is a valuable behavior that should never be stigmatized. You may contribute to eradicating the stigma attached to illnesses like depression and anxiety by seeking out. You’ll make sure you get the proper amount of treatment and social support at the same time.

You can also consult with your primary care physician, who can assist you in locating more specialist medical assistance.

Nobody ought to be forced to battle alone. Regardless of where they are beginning from, give your staff members the individualized assistance and adaptable mental health resources they need to develop mental fitness.

CoHM can help with the mental health journey by offering coaching and advice. Learn how we are transforming mental health for everybody. Book your appointment online or contact us at (647) 779-9644.

Category: Anxiety