Silent health Crisis: Mental Wellbeing Under Strain in the Age of Social Media
San Juan, Puerto Rico – A growing, largely unseen crisis in mental health is impacting individuals, especially teenagers, fueled by the pressures of curated online personas and unrealistic expectations perpetuated by social media, according to Dr. Vivian Tartaglione, a specialist in behavioral health and wellness. The statistics, she warns, are deeply concerning, signaling a widespread struggle with emotional wellbeing in the current era.
Tartaglione summarized the situation,noting that teenagers are constantly exposed to idealized versions of life – ”performance that has to be a ten,the perfect life,the perfect body and school performance.” This exposure creates notable social pressure, heavily influenced by social networks, contributing to a silent epidemic of mental health challenges.
The article from El Nuevo Día highlights the importance of proactive strategies for maintaining mental wellbeing, including regular physical activity such as brisk walking, calisthenics, aerobic dancing, jogging, weight lifting, water exercises, outdoor activities, and even household chores. These practices, alongside seeking support and prioritizing self-care, are crucial in combating the “silent enemies” that effect the body and mind.