Mental Health in the Digital Age: Challenges and Solutions for Generation Z and Alpha

Social Media is a place for many people to meet online without any time or space constraints. With no barriers to communication, communication can be achieved anywhere. This also includes the absence of boundaries for one to obtain information.
Over time, with the help of social media, many people are exposed to new linguistic cultures every day. The emergence of new languages allows the development of people's memory along with the formation of more creative contextual variants of a word in daily life. However, in some of the absorbed diction there are words that are less favourable which will then be used in everyday life like casual etiquette.
The use of indecent language will be indirectly integrated into the mental stability of the community. in some circles of society, mental ethics have been embedded which are reflected in the use of language obtained from social media. Many people, especially teenagers, use slang that is not polite and even use violence because of the influence of exposure to harsh speech.
Language is essentially a reflection of behaviour and learning, this pattern is the root of how the absorption of ethical culture on the internet can shape the characteristics of a person who is aggressive in socialising because there is no barrier in the person's cognition in the implementation of manners. This is especially dangerous for young children who will mimic the aggressive words or attitudes they see.
In addition to behavioural changes from cyberspace that affect one's mentality by increasing one's aggressiveness, excessive exposure from cyberspace also has the potential to increase stress levels. Overexposure to cyberspace can increase stress levels due to various factors.
Firstly, social media often presents an unrealistic picture of life, which can trigger feelings of not being good enough or social jealousy. Second, constant access to news and information, especially of a negative or sensational nature, can lead to excessive anxiety and fear. Third, the pressure to be connected and responsive, both in social and professional contexts, creates a burden that can disrupt life balance and downtime. In addition, cyberbullying and negative online interactions can damage mental health, while reliance on online validation can compromise self-esteem and emotional well-being. All of these contribute to increased stress, especially among younger generations who are highly connected to the virtual world.
In addition to behavioural changes from cyberspace that affect one's mentality by increasing one's aggressiveness, excessive exposure from cyberspace also has the potential to increase stress levels. Overexposure to cyberspace can increase stress levels due to various factors.
Firstly, social media often presents an unrealistic picture of life, which can trigger feelings of not being good enough or social jealousy. Second, constant access to news and information, especially of a negative or sensational nature, can lead to excessive anxiety and fear. Third, the pressure to be connected and responsive, both in social and professional contexts, creates a burden that can disrupt life balance and downtime. In addition, cyberbullying and negative online interactions can damage mental health, while reliance on online validation can compromise self-esteem and emotional well-being. All of these contribute to increased stress, especially among younger generations who are highly connected to the virtual world.
Therefore, one is advised to control how the absorption of information and cultural exposure to everyday life by;
-
Limiting Social Media Usage: Set a specific time to use social media and avoid excessive use. Using features like 'Screen Time' on smartphones can help monitor and limit the time spent in front of the screen.
-
Digital Detox: Periodically go on a digital detox by reducing or temporarily stopping your screen time. This can help reduce dependency and give your mind time to reset.
-
Choose Content Wisely: Filter your social media feeds and other digital platforms to only show content that is positive and supportive of mental health. Unfollow or mute accounts that cause stress or anxiety.
-
Maintain Quality Sleep: Avoid screen time before bed and create a healthy bedtime routine. Screen exposure before bed can disrupt sleep patterns and affect overall mental health.
-
Educate Yourself on Mental Health: Learn more about mental health and how digital factors can affect it. A good understanding can help in taking effective preventive measures.
Dian Nusantara University provides a platform for students to develop their potential and character. Increasing awareness about sensitivity to mindfulness in socialising among Generation Z and Generation Alpha students is expected to minimise mental instability and manners caused by social media. besides that, patience is also needed in educating the younger generation in manners and religious teachings so that they become ethical people with good manners.
(Kornelia Johana / Humas UNDIRA)
Press Contact :
Biro Humas & Sekretariat Universitas Dian Nusantara
Facebook : www.facebook.com/undiraofficial
Instagram : www.instagram.com/undiraofficial
Twitter : www.twitter.com/undiraofficial
www.undira.ac.id
Other

Loud Budgeting and Generation Z's Perspective on the 2024 Economy
Read more
Representing The Glory of UNDIRA Once Again in Bumi Sukowati: Congratulations to the Representatives
Read more
From Mere Dry Leaves into Marketable Commodities: UNDIRA and Democare Empower Residents of Meruya Utara to Increase Their Income
Read more
Campus Tanjung Duren
Jln. Tanjung Duren Barat II No. 1
Grogol, Jakarta Barat. 11470
Campus Green Ville
JIn. Mangga XIV No. 3
Campus Cibubur
Jln. Rawa Dolar 65
Jatiranggon Kec. Jatisampurna, Bekasi. 17432