Can Social Media HELP Chronic Depression?

[iheartparis]

I personally have had chronic depression, dysthymia, for the past seven years. This in my opinion is experienced enough to answer your questions.

Q. Do you think that social media can help chronic depression?

By raising awareness, yes. The more people know about depression/mental illness in general the better. I think if people could be made aware of depression and the different types of it, they find it more acceptable. I have come across opinions of 'attention-seeking' and 'self-inflicted'. Can you tell me how an imbalance of chemicals in your brain is self-inflicted?

Q, Do you think that the social media must be used in limited amounts when you have a case of depression?


No. I think its only natural to withdraw though, it happens. I think its best to keep in touch with what's going on because the further you become withdrawn the harder it is to get back into life when the depression has become a bit milder. On the other hand, when I was hospitalised due to my depression, it was beneficial to be limited to it, because people ask questions and people in that setting become very vulnerable indeed.

Q. Is it healthy for someone with depression to meet friends with their same problem on the social media, converse, and build a relationship with them?

I don't believe. Why not. I think you can find great support through people with similar conditions. It's easy though to get swept up in another persons emotion. Mental illness isn't contagious though, hereditary, yes, but not contagious.