Social media affects our everyday lives without us even realizing it. From fashion, food, and lifestyle choices, we are impacted by social media and influencers every day.

Dangerous “Funny” Trends

Teens everywhere are easily influenced to do trends that can be harmful or dangerous. Examples of these trends are the one-chip challenge where teens would eat a chip made with some of the spiciest peppers on earth. People got seriously sick from this challenge and in one case a person died. According to NPR a teenage boy died after attempting the one chip challenge. Make sure that when you are thinking of doing a trend you think of the consequences first.

Fashion

Social media even impacts the way we dress every day. Things like fashion trends can influence us to buy new clothing. Many trends are based on the seasons like Ugg boots and other clothing. People often spend lots of money on clothes that can easily go out of style in a few months. Social media can even influence people to purchase higher-end designer brands, proving how susceptible people are to advertising and trends that come and go.

When buying trending clothes, try to buy more affordable options so you can stay fashionable while saving money for the new waves of trends.

Lifestyle Choices

Social media can also affect our lifestyle choices. This includes eating habits and exercise. Social media can have a great impact on influencing us to try a new workout and join a gym. When we see people working out and getting stronger, that can motivate us to try to get stronger and healthier. Social media can also give us new healthy recipes that can motivate us to cook and eat healthier. Social media can help us find recipes that are easy and healthy which can help us not eat out as much and make healthier food choices.

Relationships

Our friendships and interactions with other people are impacted by social media because when we are on our phones and looking at social media it deprives us of time we could be spending with friends and family. This can lead to weaker relationships and connections with people. According to the American Psychological Association, “…social media sites [are] eating away at face-to-face time..” Social media can also positively impact our relationships by helping us find people with common interests and helping us bond over things we like to do. It can also help us to stay connected with friends and family who might live far away. According to UC Davis Health, “Viewing posts from friends and family across the world can be a way to help you feel more connected.”

All in all, social media comes with many risks but can also have benefits. As a teenager make sure to form healthy relationships with social media.