Digital hygiene: how not to get addicted to social media

In the modern world, social media has become an integral part of our lives. They are a source of information, a platform for communication, entertainment, and even self-expression. However, as in any sphere, there are “bacteria” and “viruses” – manipulations, fakes, information overload – that can negatively affect our mental health and ability to think critically. To avoid “information sickness,” it is necessary to follow the rules of digital hygiene.

Digital hygiene is a set of practices and habits aimed at conscious and healthy consumption of information in the digital environment, including social media. It includes critical evaluation of content, conscious management of time spent online, protection of personal data, and preservation of mental well-being.

Why is digital hygiene important on social media?

Social networks have unique characteristics that make us particularly vulnerable to manipulation:

• A huge amount of information: An incredible amount of content is generated every second, and it is difficult to distinguish truth from fiction.
• Emotional coloration: Many posts and news stories are aimed at evoking strong emotions, which can cloud rational thinking.
• The effect of social approval: Likes, comments, and shares create the illusion of popularity and truthfulness of information.
• Personalization algorithms: News feeds are generated based on our previous actions, which can lead to information bubbles and confirmation of our own biases.
• Speed of spread: Fake news can instantly go viral, reaching a huge audience.

Rules of digital hygiene in social media:

To protect yourself from the negative impact of social media and avoid becoming a victim of manipulation, follow these rules:

1. Be critical of sources: Before believing and sharing any information, ask yourself: who is the author of this message? Is it a reputable source? Are there links to primary sources? Check the information on several independent resources.
2. Pay attention to emotional coloration: Manipulators often use emotionally charged content (fear, anger, joy) to bypass our critical thinking. If a post makes you feel too emotional, pause and analyze it more rationally.
3. Don’t trust clickbait headlines: Overly sensationalized and emotional headlines often mask false or distorted information. Read the whole story, not just the headline.
4. Check visual content: Photos and videos can be edited or taken out of context. Use reverse image search tools to verify their authenticity and find out the original source.
5. Be aware of algorithms: Understand that your news feed is not formed by chance. Try to consume information in a diverse way by subscribing to different points of view and sources.
6. Limit the time spent on social media: Set time limits for social media use and stick to them. Excessive online time can lead to information overload and emotional exhaustion.
7. Filter your information space: Unfollow accounts that spread false information, evoke negative emotions, or are a source of manipulation. Create your own information environment that promotes your development and well-being.
8. Protect your personal data: Be careful what information you post on social media. Adjust your privacy settings and don’t share sensitive data with unreliable sources.
9. Communicate consciously: Remember the ethics of communication in the online space. Avoid insults, personal attacks, and sharing unverified information in comments.
10. Learn and develop your media literacy.

Adherence to digital hygiene rules is not a restriction of freedom, but an investment in your own mental health and ability to make informed decisions in the information society. Be a conscious consumer of information, and social media will become a useful tool for you, not a source of problems.

Автор: Майданюк Валерій