The Paradox of Connection | Mahirr Uppaal | TEDxDiscovery College Youth

Social Media & Mental Health - Social media's prominence contributes to individuals feeling uncomfortable in their own skin, leading to comparisons and a sense of inadequacy [2] - Suicide rates among teenagers in countries like Taiwan, Singapore, and the US have doubled or tripled, becoming a leading cause of death, coupled with doubled depression rates over the last decade [3] - Overstimulation of the brain and excessive information intake lead individuals to compare themselves to unrealistic standards, fostering self-doubt [10] - Approximately half of people globally identify more with self-doubt than self-love, with the percentage closer to 60% for teenagers [11] Relationships & Connections - Social media has inadvertently caused shallower relationships due to a lack of time and dedication for self-reflection, replaced by comparisons to unrealistic standards [4] - A lack of character building and social skills, such as reading people, due to excessive screen time reduces the number of real friends individuals are able to have [7] - The absence of deep connections and real friends can lead to feelings of loneliness, emotional distress, and depression [8] Solutions & Recommendations - Taking initiative to foster meaningful connections can lead to a sense of accomplishment and the relearning of skills necessary for a satisfactory life [8] - Engaging in activities like volunteer work allows individuals to interact with the community, share experiences, and become more compassionate [12] - Self-imposed isolation can be beneficial for self-reflection and personal growth, allowing individuals to propel themselves to new heights [13] - Being comfortable in one's own skin and not being afraid of being alone enhances the value of social interactions and builds self-confidence [14]