Scrolling Through Or Lives: Social Media on Youth and Society | Niharika Prabhu | TEDxYouth@FHS

Time Management & Opportunity Cost - The analysis highlights the significant time investment individuals, particularly Gen Z, make in social media, with the average user spending around 9 hours of screen time daily [1] - The report emphasizes the importance of investing time and energy wisely, as these investments shape one's life and cognitive abilities [4][5] - The document suggests that excessive screen time can lead to missed opportunities and regrets, urging individuals to be mindful of how they allocate their free time [6][16] Social Media Impact - Research indicates a strong link between social media usage and mental health issues like depression and anxiety [7] - Statistics show a decrease in attention spans due to shorter consumable media formats, impacting concentration abilities [8] - Social media platforms can negatively influence self-perception and values, promoting superficial measures of worth and relationships [9][10][11] Mitigation Strategies & Positive Usage - The analysis advocates for using social media in moderation and intentionally, focusing on positive and inspiring content [14][15][16] - A 30-day social media fast can lead to increased motivation, productivity, and a stronger connection with oneself and the world [12][13][14]